How to Identify Butterfly Peacock Bass

To identify Butterfly Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Highly variable, but typically features a golden-yellow to olive-green base color with three prominent, irregular black vertical bars on the flanks. A distinctive black ocellus (eye-spot) ringed with gold is present on the caudal fin base. Breeding males often develop a pronounced nuchal hump (forehead hump).

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Three irregular black vertical bars on flanks, Black ocellus (eye-spot) ringed with gold on caudal fin base, Robust, elongated body, Large mouth with numerous small, conical teeth, Pronounced nuchal hump in breeding males

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin, deeply notched, with a spiny anterior portion (typically XV-XVII spines) and a soft-rayed posterior portion (10-12 soft rays).

Tail fin

Slightly emarginate to rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large, rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic. Anal fin has III spines and 8-9 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Ocellus

   The most reliable distinguishing feature is the prominent black, gold-ringed 'eye-spot' (ocellus) at the base of the caudal fin. This is present in all life stages.

2. 2

   Vertical Bars

   Typically exhibits three distinct, irregular black vertical bars on its flanks. The intensity and shape of these bars can vary.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Robust, elongated, and somewhat compressed body, typical of a predatory cichlid.

4. 4

   Coloration

   General body coloration ranges from golden-yellow to olive-green, often with iridescent scales.

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