(101) Brokopondo Peacock Bass 3-5''

The Brokopondo Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris 'Brokopondo morph') is a highly prized and rare color variant of the ocellaris Peacock Bass. It is named for its origin in Suriname's Lake Brokopondo. Known for its stunning speckled pattern and robust size, this is a "monster fish" that requires significant space and expertise.

• Tank size: A single adult can reach 20–28 inches in captivity and requires a minimum of a 300-gallon aquarium to provide ample swimming room. A longer, wider tank is preferable to a taller one.
• Filtration: As large, messy predators, they require powerful, oversized filtration. Sump systems or multiple high-capacity canister filters are necessary to manage their bioload and keep water quality pristine.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a stable tropical temperature between 76–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5–7.5 is ideal.
  • Water quality: They are sensitive to poor water quality. Frequent, large water changes (40–50% weekly) are essential to prevent health issues like Hole-in-the-Head disease.
• Substrate: A sandy or fine gravel substrate is recommended, with plenty of open space for swimming.
• Decorations: Include some large, secure pieces of driftwood and rocks for hiding, but ensure all decorations are stable. Peacock Bass can be destructive and will rearrange decor.
• Secure lid: A heavy-duty, tight-fitting lid is mandatory, as peacock bass are powerful and notorious jumpers. 

• Carnivorous diet: 
  Brokopondo Peacock Bass
   are piscivores (fish-eaters) and require a varied, protein-rich diet.
• Food types:
  • Training: While they naturally hunt live fish, they can be weaned onto healthier frozen and pelleted foods. Start with frozen foods like shrimp, krill, and whole fish.
  • Staple: High-quality pellets formulated for large carnivores, such as 
    Hikari Massivore
     or 
    Omega One Large Cichlid Pellets
    .
  • Live food: Avoid using live feeder fish from pet stores, as they can transmit diseases.
• Feeding schedule: Feed juveniles daily and reduce the frequency for adults to a few times per week. 

• Aggressive and predatory: Brokopondo Peacock Bass are aggressive, territorial, and will eat any fish that fits in their mouth.
• Tank mates: They are often best kept in species-only tanks. If housing them with other fish, select only large, robust, and equally aggressive species. Compatible companions include:
  • Large Datnoids
  • Arowanas
  • Monster Plecos and other large armored catfish
  • Other Cichla species of equal size
• Incompatible companions: Any small or slow-moving fish will be viewed as prey.