Tucanare Peacock Bass (Cichla sp.)

The bold eyespot near the tail is exactly where peacock bass get their name, echoing the eye-like markings on a peacock's tail feathers, and like similar eyespots elsewhere in the fish world it likely helps deflect predator strikes away from the actual head. Unlike the mouthbrooding cichlids many keepers are used to, Cichla are substrate spawners, with both parents guarding a nest and fry together rather than one parent carrying eggs internally.

Care level: Moderate · Temperament: Aggressive, predatory · Max size: ~24" · Min tank: 180+ gal (adult) · Diet: Carnivore, live/frozen meaty foods