![]() ![]() Distribution throughout the area can be attributed to the travel of this species through the warm, freshwater canals of Florida. Upon introduction, roughly 10,000 young fish were introduced to the Miami-Dade County area via releasing the juveniles into the lakes and canals. ![]() In 1984, the Florida Fish and Game Commission introduced the species to the lakes and rivers of Miami-Dade County, in south Florida. Butterfly peacock bass cannot survive in salinities exceeding 18 ppt, nor can they live in temperatures less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Like other species of bass, they tend to inhabit shaded areas under trees, bridges, and culverts. The species thrives in warm, slow-moving bodies of water including lakes, ponds, canals, and rock pits. Native to the tropical Americas, the true Cichla ocellaris is restricted to the Guianas. Average lifespan for the Butterfly Peacock Bass is 6–10 years. Upon additional growth beyond the average, a fish can potentially add up to 1.5 pounds of weight with every extra inch grown. The growth from spawn to the average length of 12–14 inches progresses rapidly throughout the first 16–18 months of life. Once the eggs are laid, both adults are responsible for protecting them from prey. ![]() Like other bass, adult fish create large flat surfaces that are hardened down near the shore in order to serve as a spawn location. Spawning season for the fish is between April and September, with a height in May and June. This spot is located on the caudal fin and resembles the feathers of a peacock. The common name of the fish originates from the black spot with a yellow halo surrounding. With having the tendency to fade, these lines may not be found on some older fish. While color is extremely variable, the most prominent physical characteristics are the three vertical black lines along the sides of the body. Body and fin colors range from yellows, greens, and light red to orange. Similarly shaped in body size compared to the largemouth bass, the butterfly peacock bass can reach lengths of up to 29 in (740 mm), but averages 12–14 in (300–360 mm) in length. Studies conclude that the introduction of Cichla ocellaris does not negatively impact fish communities in Florida, making it an effective fisheries management tool. It has also been introduced to regions outside its natural range (e.g., Florida, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico), but some uncertainty exists over the exact identity, and at least some of the introductions may involve another Cichla species or hybrids. It is native to the Marowijne and Essequibo drainages in the Guianas, and the Branco River in Brazil. Acharnes speciosus Müller & Troschel, 1849Ĭichla ocellaris, sometimes known as the butterfly peacock bass ("peacock bass" is also used for some of its relatives), is a very large species of cichlid from South America, and a prized game fish. ![]()
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