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Midwest Aquarium and Pond Supplier LLC

(100) Kelberi Peacock Bass 3-5''

(100) Kelberi Peacock Bass 3-5''

$50.00 USD
$50.00 USD
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The Kelberi Peacock Bass (Cichla kelberi) is a predatory freshwater fish from the rivers of Southeastern Brazil. While considered one of the "smaller" species of Peacock Bass, it is still a large fish requiring significant space and an experienced aquarist. It is prized for its golden coloration and vivid black markings. 

Tank and water requirements
  • Tank size: A minimum of a 180-gallon tank is required for a single adult. Given their size (often reaching 10–12 inches, but capable of up to 18 inches) and active nature, a larger tank is always better.
  • Filtration: A powerful and robust filtration system is essential to manage the significant waste this large predator produces.
  • Water parameters:
    • Temperature: Maintain a stable tropical temperature between 76 and 84°F (24–29°C).
    • pH: A range of 6.0–7.4 is ideal.
    • Water quality: High water quality is crucial. 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. Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate.
  • Secure lid: A heavy-duty, tight-fitting lid is mandatory, as peacock bass are known jumpers. 

Diet and feeding
  • Carnivorous diet: As voracious predators, Kelberi Peacock Bass require a varied, protein-rich diet.
  • Food types: While they may be raised on live feeder fish, 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.
  • Avoid: Do not feed live feeder fish from pet stores, as they can transmit diseases. 

Temperament and tank mates
  • Aggressive and predatory: Kelberi Peacock Bass are aggressive and territorial, but they are less so than larger Peacock Bass species. They will eat any fish that fits in their mouth.
  • Tank mates: They are best kept in a species-only tank or with other large, robust fish that cannot be eaten. Suitable companions include:
    • Large cichlids (Oscars, Jaguar Cichlids)
    • Large catfish (Plecos, Redtail Catfish)
    • Other robust fish (Arowanas, large Silver Dollars)
  • Incompatible companions: Any small fish or small, delicate tank mates will be viewed as prey
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