Author: Bloch & Schneider, 1801
FBname: Peacock cichlid
Comments: Occurs in the rapids, in quiet waters with medium depth and rocky substrates (Ref. 35237).  Forms schools (Ref. 9086).  Feeds only on small fish, especially threadfin shad, mosquito fish, tilapia and bluegill.  Not considered ideal for aquaculture due to its highly predatory habits (Ref. 1739).  Reproduction occurs year-round, with a peak at the start of the rainy season.  About 9,000 to 15,000 eggs per kg are released during spawning.  Spawning takes place every two months on a flat stone in shallow water.  The sticky eggs, measuring 1.4 mm in diameter, take 78 hours to hatch at 28°C.