(103) Intermedia Peacock Bass 3-5in

The Intermedia Peacock Bass (Cichla intermedia), also known as the Royal Peacock Bass, is a large, predatory freshwater fish from the Orinoco and Casiquiare River basins in South America. It is one of the smaller species of peacock bass, but it is still an aggressive carnivore that requires a very large tank and is only suitable for experienced aquarists

• Tank size: A minimum of 150 gallons is recommended for an adult Intermedia Peacock Bass, with larger tanks (240+ gallons) ideal for multiple fish or tank mates. A long and wide tank is better than a tall one to provide ample swimming room.
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel is suitable.
• Filtration: A powerful and robust filtration system is essential to handle the bioload and maintain excellent water quality. Strong water flow is beneficial, as they are accustomed to riverine environments.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature of 75–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: A slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0–7.5 is ideal.
  • Water changes: Perform regular, large water changes to keep nitrates low.
• Decorations: Provide some hiding places using large, secure pieces of driftwood and rocks, but leave plenty of open swimming space.
• Secure lid: A heavy-duty, tight-fitting lid is mandatory, as peacock bass are known jumpers. 

• Carnivorous diet: As a voracious carnivore and a natural fish-eater, a varied diet is essential.
• Food types: While newly imported fish often prefer live food, they can be weaned onto a balanced diet of:
  • High-quality carnivore pellets and sticks
  • Frozen meaty foods such as shrimp, krill, and whole fish
• Feeding schedule: Feed juveniles daily and reduce the frequency for adults to a few times per week. Do not overfeed, as this can cause digestive issues.
• Avoid: Do not feed live feeder fish from pet stores, as they can carry diseases. 

• Aggressive and predatory: Intermedia Peacock Bass are aggressive and territorial, especially toward other cichlids. They will eat any fish that fits in their mouth.
• Social dynamics: They are best kept with similarly sized, robust, and fast-moving fish.
• Compatible companions:
  • Other large, aggressive cichlids
  • Large catfish, such as Plecos or Redtail Catfish
  • Silver Dollars or Pacus
• Incompatible companions: Avoid small or slow-moving fish, which will be viewed as prey. 

• Substrate spawners: Breeding in captivity is difficult but possible under the right conditions.
• Spawning behavior: A breeding pair will lay adhesive eggs on submerged rocks or driftwood and will guard them aggressively