'Lukanini'—Cichla ocellaris
C. ocellaris is found mostly in northern Guyana shield drainages. It only occurs in the upper Rio Branco (Tacutu and Urariquera) in Brazil. Temperature tolerant, it has been successfully transplanted to Florida where it is called the "Butterfly” peacock, leading to confusion with C. orinocensis. Attains up to 12 lbs.
ID Key: C. ocellaris has faint transversal bars in some specimens and a round mark underneath the pectoral. Sometimes has one distinct individualized ocellum underneath the second dorsal fin. No black markings on the operculum (cheek).
| Bars and Markings | Colors | Size | Key Characters | Similar Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 distinct, short vertical bars, abdominal bar and ocellated blotch in rearmost bar. Postorbital band (or series of connected blotches on operculum (cheek) not present. | Reproductively active specimens show intensified coloration, otherwise coloration fairly consistent between individuals. | Juveniles: up to about 200mm (8 inches) Adults: from 200mm up to about 500mm (20 inches) |
Depth to length ratio: approx. 32% Lateral Line Scales: approx. 75 |
Most similar to C. kelberi C. pleiozona C. monoculus C. nigromaculatus |
| Known Range | Behavior Notes | Habitat | Common Names | IGFA records |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countries: French Guiana, Surinam, Guyana and Brazil. River Basins: Marowijine, Suriname, Saramacca, Nickerie, Corantijn, Berbice, Essequibo and upper Rio Branco drainages. |
Found in rivers with fast water sections. Tend to be accessible in shallow eddies and rocky backwaters. | English: Florida Butterfly peacock bass Local: Lukanini Toekoenali Zonnevisch Matawale & other regional variations. |
All tackle—lbs |
Fishing Tactics
Jim Micinilio caught specimens like the one at right in a quiet cove off the Rio Uraiquera. There was a small tributary feeding the back of the bay. The first one he encountered was caught on a Rapala CD14. He caught several more on topwater plugs (such as small woodchoppers and storm chug bug poppers - 5 1/2") up close to the bank. A lot of fish were found on the edge of the channel hanging on rock ledges. They were super aggressive. Jim also caught alot on home made buck tail jigs, all colors. As the water levels subsided during his week on the river, the fish were easier to spot, but harder to catch. Jim experienced a lot of cut offs on rocks. These peacocks were a highlight of his trip to the region. They averaged 4-7lbs.