Kelberi Peacock Bass– The Complete Guide to Raising This Golden Monster Fish

Introduction: The Golden Jewel of the Peacock Bass Family

The Kelberi Peacock Bass (Cichla kelberi) is a radiant, golden-bodied predator with a gentler temperament than most of its relatives. Perfect for advanced hobbyists and monster fish keepers, juvenile Kelberi in the 2-4” range are sought after for their potential to grow into showstopping centerpieces with electric yellow and gold tones.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about caring for a small Kelberi Peacock Bass, from setup and feeding to growth and tank mates. If you're considering one for your exotic freshwater aquarium, read on before you buy.

🌊 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Cichla kelberi

• Common Name: Kelberi Peacock Bass

• Adult Size: 14–18 inches

• Origin: Brazil (Rio Tocantins and other tributaries)

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, predatory

• Lifespan: 10+ years

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

🏠 Ideal Aquarium Setup

Tank Size & Layout

• Minimum tank for juveniles (under 5”): 75 gallons

• Tank for adults: 180+ gallons

• Tank shape: Long tanks preferred over tall setups

Kelberi Peacock Bass require room to swim horizontally. Use smooth, natural decor that allows for swimming lanes and hiding zones without sharp edges.

Filtration & Flow

• High-output canister filters or sumps recommended

• Ensure strong biological filtration to handle heavy bioload

• Keep oxygenation high with surface agitation or air stones

Substrate & Decor

• Fine sand or bare-bottom tank

• Minimalist scaping with driftwood and large rocks

• Avoid live plants (they'll be uprooted or ignored)

🍽️ Feeding: Predator Diet for Juveniles

Kelberi are micropredators by nature. At 2-4”, they can be transitioned to prepared food with some patience.

Best Foods:

• Pellets: NorthFin Cichlid, Hikari Carnivore Pellets, NLS Thera+A

• Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, mysis shrimp, krill, chopped tilapia

• Live Foods: Guppies, small ghost shrimp (only from disease-free sources)

Feeding frequency: 2–3x/day while young; 1–2x/day as they grow

Transitioning to pellets early is crucial for long-term success.

🤣 Behavior & Intelligence

Kelberi Peacock Bass are more docile than other cichla species, especially around tank mates. They are intelligent, often watching room activity, and can be trained to hand-feed.

Expect them to become:

• Skittish during water changes or sudden movement

• Aggressive when feeding or establishing space

• Curious and interactive when conditioned

📊 Growth Rate & Stages

• Juvenile (2-4”): Fast growth under ideal conditions

• 6 months: 6–8” with strong feeding

• 12 months: 10–12”+ depending on tank size

• Full grown: 14–18” within 2–3 years

Provide high-protein diets and ample water changes (30–50% weekly) to fuel rapid development.

🛋 Tank Mates for Kelberi Peacock Bass

Compatible:

• Large Silver Dollars

• Bichirs

• Oscars (same size)

• Large Plecos

• Arowanas (with caution)

Not Recommended:

• Small fish (anything under 4” is food)

• Fin-nipping species (aggravates Kelberi)

• Extremely aggressive tank mates (can stress your bass)

Add tank mates after your Kelberi is established, and ensure similar size.

🚑 Health Issues & Prevention

Kelberi are hardy but need pristine water.

Watch for:

• Ammonia/nitrite burns

• Bacterial infections from poor filtration

• Internal parasites (use general deworming if symptoms appear)

Prevention:

• Weekly testing and water changes

• Quarantine new fish for 2+ weeks

• Avoid overfeeding and remove waste promptly

🛍️ Why Buy From RobsAquatics.com?

• Responsibly sourced juvenile Kelberi

• 100% Live Arrival Guarantee

• Professionally packed and shipped overnight

• Support and resources via YouTube, email, and blogs

• Trusted by hobbyists and monster fish keepers nationwide

🎥 Content Ideas for YouTube & Social

Kelberi are visual stunners that photograph and film well. Create content like:

• "Kelberi Bass Feeding Frenzy!"

• "How Fast Do Peacock Bass Grow?" (time-lapse series)

• "Best Tankmates for Your Peacock Bass"

• "Tank Tour: Raising a Monster Kelberi"

🔹 Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a powerful, golden showpiece fish with less aggression than most predators, the Kelberi Peacock Bass is a top-tier choice. Start with a healthy 2-4” juvenile from RobsAquatics.com and raise it into a true aquatic gem.

Call to Action:
Ready to add one to your monster tank? Order your Kelberi Peacock Bass (Small) from RobsAquatics.com today.

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