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Azul Peacock Bass (Cichla piquiti)

Azul Peacock Bass (Cichla piquiti)

Posted by Max Gandara on on 21st May 2025

Azul Peacock Bass (Cichla piquiti) – The Sapphire Titan of the Freshwater World

If you're a fan of large, powerful, and visually striking freshwater fish, the Azul Peacock Bass (Cichla piquiti) is the crown jewel of monster fish keeping. Revered for its electric blue sheen and raw predatory energy, this species is not just a fish—it's a statement piece for serious aquarists.

? What Is the Azul Peacock Bass?

The Azul Peacock Bass is a selectively identified morph or subspecies of Cichla piquiti, a species of Peacock Bass native to the Amazon and other South American river systems. The term "Azul" means blue in Spanish and Portuguese—a nod to this fish's brilliant blue hues, especially prominent along its dorsal fin and upper body.

Unlike its more common cousins (like the Cichla ocellaris or Cichla monoculus), the Azul is often prized for its:

  • Deeper body shape

  • Saturated blue coloration

  • Fewer but bolder lateral markings

? Size & Growth

  • Adult Size: 24–30+ inches (60–76 cm)

  • Growth Rate: Fast (can reach 12 inches or more within a year)

  • Tank Size: Absolute minimum of 300 gallons for long-term care

  • Lifespan: 10–15+ years with proper care

This is not a fish for small tanks or casual setups. Azul Peacock Bass are among the largest cichlids in the world and require serious space and filtration.

? Temperament & Behavior

Azul Peacock Bass are aggressive, intelligent predators with a commanding presence. In the wild, they ambush prey with speed and precision. In the aquarium, they’ll hunt anything that fits in their mouth—including tankmates—so only house them with other large, robust fish.

Compatible tankmates may include:

  • Datnoids

  • Large catfish (e.g., Redtail, Tiger Shovelnose)

  • Other Peacock Bass (same size)

  • Arowanas

  • Large Oscars (with caution)

? Diet & Feeding

Azuls are voracious carnivores and require a high-protein diet. While juveniles may accept pellets early on, many require training to switch from live to prepared foods.

Recommended diet:

  • Live or frozen fish (avoid feeder goldfish due to health risks)

  • Shrimp

  • Tilapia fillets

  • Earthworms

  • Carnivore pellets (e.g., Hikari Massivore Delite, NorthFin Carnivore)

Pro Tip: Feed high-quality frozen and pellet foods to avoid parasite transmission from live feeders.

? Aquarium Setup

Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 25–30°C (77–86°F)

  • pH: 6.5–7.8

  • Water Hardness: Moderate

  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm – sensitive to poor water quality

Setup Essentials:

  • Heavy-duty filtration (canister or sump preferred)

  • Strong water flow and aeration

  • Open swimming areas with minimal decorations

  • Secure lids (they jump!)

? Intelligence & Interaction

Azul Peacock Bass are more than just big and beautiful. They’re smart, reactive, and observant, often recognizing their owners and responding to feeding cues. With time, some will even eat from your hand.

⚠️ Important Considerations

  • Not suitable for community tanks

  • Rapid growth demands frequent tank upgrades

  • Sensitive to poor water quality—requires excellent maintenance

  • May require live food training during early stages

? Thinking of Adding One?

Due to their rarity and demand, Azul Peacock Bass are often priced higher than other cichlids. Always purchase from reputable breeders or suppliers who specialize in large predatory species.

Look for:

  • Bright, even coloration

  • Alert, responsive behavior

  • Full, rounded body shape

  • No visible parasites or deformities

? Final Thoughts

The Azul Peacock Bass is one of the most stunning and rewarding monster fish in the aquarium hobby. While it requires serious space, equipment, and commitment, the payoff is a breathtaking aquatic predator that commands attention in every way.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of mega fishkeeping, the Azul Peacock Bass just might be your dream fish.