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Peacock cichlid – species information, requirements | Pets

The peacock’s cichlid is a dream come true for many aquarists. This species is also known as Oscar. Fish is so demanding that not everyone can afford to breed it. Additionally, peacock cichlids are also extremely intelligent. When she gets bored, she can literally flip the tank upside down. Before you buy an Oscar, find out more about his needs and disposition.

Peacock cichlids – origin

Peacock Cichlids come from South America. In natural conditions, you can meet them in the Amazon basin in Brazil, Chile or even French Guiana. They live mainly in shallow reservoirs where you can find many different species of plants and tree roots.

Peacock fish – appearance

The peacock gull is huge, at least for an aquarium fish. Usually it measures about 30 centimeters, but there are individuals whose body length reaches up to 50 centimeters. This species is distinguished by a compact structure and prominent lips.

Sexual dimorphism is almost imperceptible in this species. A trained eye will distinguish a female from a male only during spawning. Patterns appear on the body of these fish – the characteristic peacock eyes. The fish took their Polish name from them.

There are many color varieties in breeding:

  • albinos;
  • red tiger;
  • red oscar;
  • lemon oscar;
  • golden oscar;
  • bloody oscar.

Oskar cichlid – disposition

Oskar is a fish with a generally calm disposition. As befits a cichlid, she will feel best in the company of her partner. For this reason, it is worth buying fish that are already selected and living in harmony with each other.

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This species is famous for its high intelligence. Peacock Cichlids learn quickly, recognize their guardian, and have clear preferences for the food they serve. They can be aggressive in too small tanks.

You need to be prepared for the fact that this species of fish has a fast metabolism. Additionally, they often dig in the ground. This means that – when they lack entertainment – they can rearrange the tank.

Can the peacock cichlid live with other fish?

The peacock gourd is best kept in the company of its own kind. At home, it is recommended to limit to one matched pair. As a carnivorous fish, it can treat its smaller companions as dinner. In turn, other large fish will pose a threat to it and may provoke aggression.

Peacock cichlid – aquarium

Peacock Cichlids need a reservoir of at least 150 centimeters long. No compromises can be made in this field. In too small tanks the fish becomes frustrated and can be aggressive. Stress, in turn, lowers her immunity.

Peacock cichlid and conditions in the reservoir

In the aquarium of peacock cichlids, appropriate conditions must be provided, e.g. dim lighting. Choose a sandy surface where the fish can dig. They can hurt the body in the gravel.

Be sure to invest in a variety of roots and plants. Make sure that they have strong leaves and are well embedded in the substrate. Avoid decorations that the fish can choke on, as Oscar Cichlids are voracious and will try to eat whatever they can fit in their mouths.

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The recommended water parameters for the peacock cichlid are:

  • temperature – from 21 ° C to 28 ° C, while the heater should be outside, because fish can break it occasionally;
  • pH – from 6 to 7.5;
  • hardness – from 5 dGH to 20 dGH.

Oskar Fish – Nutrition

Peacock cichlids are carnivorous fish. They must have access to a variety of food. Commercial food intended for this species will work well. However, supplement it with live and frozen additives. Never feed these fish with bird or mammal meat! It is too hard to digest and can cause health problems.

Peacock cichlid – reproduction

Oskar reaches sexual maturity at the end of the year. Reproduction at home is only possible when the pair is really well matched. The tank in which the fish live must also be sufficiently large and spacious.

Like all cichlids, peacocks also lay their eggs on hard surfaces, most often stones or branches. As they mature, their parents are very loving about their safety. At this time, they also dig a hole in the substrate, into which they then transfer the hatched fry. Small fish leave it only after a week.

Remember that in one “litter” even a thousand fry can be born. It is worth being prepared for this and having a suitable place to place small cichlids in it.

Peacock cichlid – summary

The Oskar fish is one of the most demanding and fascinating aquarium fish. It requires a huge tank and careful care, but it repays with a true devotion to the caregiver. The peacock eye cichlid will recognize you, remember what you do with the aquarium, and will be eagerly awaiting its favorite food.

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If you have room for an aquarium tank at least 150 meters long in your home, it will be a good idea to use it to breed peacock cichlids. It is hard to find another freshwater fish, so bright and so distinctive.