Temensis Peacock Bass/Speckled Pavon Peacock Bass - (Cichla temensis)

🐟 Temensis Peacock Bass / Speckled Pavon Peacock Bass – (Cichla temensis) – Largest Cichlid Species in the World

The Temensis Peacock Bass (Cichla temensis), also called the Speckled Pavon, is the largest and heaviest cichlid in the world, with the African Emperor Cichlid (Boulengerochromis microlepis) being the next closest in size. Native to the Amazon and Orinoco River Basins, this apex predator can exceed 3 feet in length and weigh over 25 pounds in the wild. Known for its explosive hunting behavior, muscular body, and brilliant breeding colors, the Temensis is the ultimate trophy fish for serious monster fish keepers.

🔎 Quick Facts – Temensis Peacock Bass (Cichla temensis)

• 📛 Common Names: Temensis Peacock Bass, Speckled Pavon, Speckled Peacock Bass
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Cichla temensis
• 🌍 Origin: Amazon and Orinoco River Basins (South America)
• 🎨 Appearance: Long, powerful body with greenish-gold to bronze tones; black vertical bars or speckling; vivid orange/yellow accents during breeding
• 📏 Max Size: 28–36 inches (70–90 cm) in the wild; 20–26 inches (50–66 cm) in captivity
• ⚖️ World Record: Largest and heaviest cichlid species
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; highly sought after by monster fish keepers

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Aggressive predator; will consume any fish small enough to swallow
• 🐟 Best housed with other large, fast-swimming species
• 🌿 Extremely active swimmer requiring large open spaces

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons for an adult
• 🪵 Large open swimming area with heavy, secure décor
• 🪨 Requires powerful filtration and frequent water changes
• 💡 Bright lighting brings out iridescent colors

💧 Water Parameters – Temensis Peacock Bass Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 78–86°F (25–30°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Apex Predator

• 🐟 Live or frozen fish, shrimp, and large crustaceans
• 🦐 Frozen krill, prawns, and squid for variety
• 🌽 Can be trained to accept high-quality carnivore pellets

📋 Temensis Peacock Bass Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Temensis Peacock Bass is the largest and most powerful cichlid species on Earth, rivaled only by the African Emperor Cichlid in size, making it a true apex predator and showpiece for massive freshwater aquariums.