Pinima Peacock Bass (Cichla pinima) Care Guide | Rare Monster Fish for Sale Online

Pinima Peacock Bass: The Ultimate Guide to One of the Rarest Cichla Species in the Aquarium Trade

Introduction

Among the stunning array of peacock bass species, Cichla pinima, commonly known as the Pinima Peacock Bass, stands out as one of the rarest and most sought-after monster fish in the freshwater aquarium world. Known for its unique markings, aggressive feeding response, and deep golden hues, the Pinima is a prized catch for serious hobbyists and collectors alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping, feeding, and showcasing this powerful predator—and why RobsAquatics.com is your top source for healthy, premium Pinima Peacock Bass.

Table of Contents

  1. What is the Pinima Peacock Bass?

  2. Natural Habitat and Distribution

  3. Identifying Features of Cichla pinima

  4. Size, Growth Rate, and Lifespan

  5. Behavior and Personality

  6. Tank Size and Setup Requirements

  7. Water Parameters and Filtration

  8. Feeding and Nutrition

  9. Tank Mates and Compatibility

  10. Handling and Temperament

  11. Breeding Behavior

  12. Health and Disease Prevention

  13. Pinima vs. Other Peacock Bass Species

  14. Availability and Why They’re Rare

  15. Where to Buy Pinima Peacock Bass Online

  16. Why Buy From RobsAquatics.com

  17. Final Thoughts

1. What Is the Pinima Peacock Bass?

The Pinima Peacock Bass (Cichla pinima) is a species of large South American cichlid found in the Amazon River basin, particularly in the Brazilian state of Pará. Part of the Cichla genus, which includes over 15 recognized species, Pinima are known for their distinctive elongated body shape and irregular lateral blotches that set them apart from their more commonly seen cousins like the Cichla ocellaris or monoculus.

They are rarely seen in the aquarium trade due to their remote native range and the difficulty of export. That rarity makes them a holy grail fish among monster fish keepers.

2. Natural Habitat and Distribution

Pinima are native to slow-moving, blackwater rivers in the Pará region of Brazil, where water is warm, acidic, and often stained with tannins from decaying vegetation.

Natural conditions:

  • Water temp: 78–84°F

  • pH: 5.5–6.8

  • Substrate: Muddy or sandy

  • Vegetation: Sparse, often driftwood-dominated

Their preference for murky waters makes them highly dependent on vision and vibration to detect prey.

3. Identifying Features of Cichla pinima

What sets Pinima apart from other peacock bass species?

  • Coloration: Golden-yellow base with a strong lateral stripe broken into blotches

  • Body Shape: More elongated than monoculus or temensis

  • Markings: Irregular, abstract side markings (unlike the neat “three bar” pattern of other Cichla)

  • Fins: Large, well-developed dorsal and caudal fins

  • Eyespots: Prominent caudal ocellus on tail base

Young specimens often show intense vertical barring, which transforms into blotched or faded patterns with age.

4. Size, Growth Rate, and Lifespan

  • Max Size: 28–32 inches in the wild; 22–26 inches in captivity

  • Growth Rate: Rapid when fed a high-protein diet

  • Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

Pinima are incredibly fast growers, especially in the first 12–18 months. You’ll need to size up your tank quickly if you start with a juvenile.

5. Behavior and Personality

Cichla pinima are high-energy, intelligent, and food-driven predators. They display:

  • Territorial aggression during feeding

  • Powerful burst-swimming when chasing prey

  • Occasional dominance displays with tank mates

They often recognize their keepers and will beg at the glass for food, making them interactive and entertaining pets.

6. Tank Size and Setup Requirements

A fully grown Pinima needs significant space.

Minimum Tank Size:

  • Juveniles: 125 gallons

  • Adults: 300–500 gallons

Ideal Setup:

  • Bare bottom or fine sand substrate

  • Driftwood for cover and aesthetic

  • Large open swimming space

  • Multiple powerheads or high-flow filtration

They do well in indoor ponds or custom acrylic tanks with reinforced corners.

7. Water Parameters and Filtration

Pinima are somewhat adaptable, but prefer water conditions close to their native blackwater rivers.

  • Temperature: 78–84°F

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: Soft to medium

  • Filtration: Dual canister filters or sump

  • Water Movement: Moderate to high

Ammonia and nitrite should always be 0 ppm, and nitrates under 20 ppm for long-term health. Large water changes (30–50% weekly) are a must.

8. Feeding and Nutrition

As apex carnivores, Pinima require a protein-packed diet.

Best Foods:

  • Frozen or live shrimp

  • Live fish (quarantined or bred feeders)

  • Chopped tilapia or smelt

  • Earthworms

  • High-quality carnivore pellets (e.g., Hikari Massivore, Northfin)

Feed juveniles daily. Adults can be fed every other day but thrive on varied meals.

Avoid:

  • Mammal meats (beef, chicken)

  • Feeder goldfish (risk of parasites)

  • High-fat foods

9. Tank Mates and Compatibility

Pinima are best housed with other large, robust fish that can defend themselves or coexist peacefully.

Recommended Tank Mates:

  • Other Peacock Bass species (same size)

  • Datnoids

  • Arowanas

  • Stingrays

  • Bichirs

  • Large catfish (e.g., RTC, Tig, Juruense)

Avoid:

  • Small community fish

  • Fin nippers

  • Aggressive Central American cichlids (unless tank is massive)

Always monitor new tank dynamics, especially during feeding times.

10. Handling and Temperament

Handling should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. When netting or moving Pinima:

  • Use rubberized nets

  • Avoid stressing them during water changes

  • Ensure tank has secure lids—they can leap!

Despite their size, they’re intelligent and learn feeding routines quickly.

11. Breeding Behavior

In captivity, Pinima breeding is rare but possible under controlled conditions.

Key breeding triggers:

  • Warm water (82–85°F)

  • Isolated pair or group

  • Smooth vertical surface for egg laying

  • Dimmed lighting

Males and females form monogamous pairs and protect fry aggressively. However, raising the fry requires experience with egg incubation and live food like baby brine shrimp.

12. Health and Disease Prevention

Pinima are generally hardy, but prone to issues if water quality is neglected.

Common Issues:

  • Hole in the Head (HITH) – From poor water or nutrition

  • Gill Flukes – Especially on new imports

  • Parasitic Infections – From unquarantined feeders

Prevention:

  • Maintain perfect water quality

  • Use UV sterilizers

  • Quarantine all new fish

  • Feed a varied diet with added vitamins

We always recommend RobsAquatics.com specimens due to proper quarantine and care before shipping.

13. Pinima vs. Other Peacock Bass Species

Species Max Size Pattern Rarity Temperament
Pinima 28–32” Irregular blotches Very Rare Aggressive
Monoculus 20–24” 3 vertical bars Common Semi-aggressive
Orinoco 24–28” Gold base, strong bars Rare Territorial
Temensis 32–36” Spotted when young Rare Powerful hunter

Pinima is considered a collector’s fish due to limited availability and unique markings.

14. Availability and Why They’re Rare

Pinima Peacock Bass are almost exclusively wild-caught and are seasonally available, usually between:

  • Late fall through early spring (during low-water season in South America)

  • In limited numbers due to export permit restrictions

They’re typically snapped up quickly by monster fish collectors, which makes them a high-demand, low-supply species.

15. Where to Buy Pinima Peacock Bass Online

Because of their rarity and size, most local fish stores don’t carry Pinima Peacock Bass. Your best bet is to go with a trusted exotic fish supplier with experience handling monster fish.

RobsAquatics.com is a premier online source for Pinima Peacock Bass with:

  • Verified health checks

  • Quarantine and acclimation

  • Safe, temperature-controlled shipping

  • Live arrival guarantee

We frequently stock hand-selected, show-quality Pinima that are raised on a healthy diet and trained to eat frozen foods.

👉 Order your Pinima now at RobsAquatics.com before they're gone!

16. Why Buy From RobsAquatics.com

At Rob’s Aquatics, we don’t just sell fish—we build lifelong relationships with serious hobbyists. Here’s why customers choose us for their monster fish needs:

âś… Carefully sourced imports from trusted South American exporters
✅ 2–3 week quarantine before sale
âś… Responsive customer service
âś… Expert handling of rare species
âś… Full acclimation guides included
âś… Fast, insulated shipping with heat or cold packs as needed

17. Final Thoughts

The Pinima Peacock Bass is a majestic and formidable centerpiece fish that’s perfect for monster tank enthusiasts who want something truly special. With their explosive feeding response, beautiful golden hues, and powerful body, they’re the type of fish that command attention.

However, their care requirements are not for beginners. You’ll need a large tank, dedication to water quality, and a proper feeding regimen to keep them thriving.

If you're ready to take your predator tank to the next level, the Pinima is an unbeatable choice.

👉 Get your Pinima Peacock Bass now from RobsAquatics.com while they’re still in stock!

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