Peacock bass
Peacock bass (Cichla ocellaris) is a freshwater, brackish species recorded in Singapore, United States.
Scientific name: Cichla ocellaris · Water: Freshwater, Brackish · Also known as: Butterfly peacock bass
Size: 25–60 cm
Weight: 0.5–4 kg
About
Peacock bass is the poster target of Singapore's reservoirs, a South American cichlid now firmly established as an invasive species. It is an ambush predator that guards shallow structure and spawning beds, and it hits lures violently with explosive, jumping fights. Catchable all year, with dawn and dusk the prime windows.
Differences by region
- Singapore — Local name：Peacock bass · Season：All year · Common methods：Shore / surf · Size：25–60 cm · Weight：0.5–4 kg · Water layer：Near-bottom / mid-lower · Angling traits：Iconic target, Beginner-friendly
- United States — Local name：Butterfly peacock bass · Season：Spring, Summer · Common methods：Shore / surf・Boat · Size：74 cm · Weight：6.8 kg · Water layer：Bottom-dwelling · Angling traits：Iconic target, High value
Ecology and habitat
- Water layer
- Near-bottom / mid-lower
- Distribution status
- Introduced
- Trophic level
- 4.5
Fishery and market
- Game fish
- Yes
- Resilience
- High
Angling traits
- Iconic target
- Beginner-friendly
Methods
Sources
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