Also known as
- Pavon Real VE
- Tucunaré Real BR
- Royal US
- Intermedia Peacock US
Identification
A robust deep-bodied cichlid with a laterally compressed muscular build engineered for powerful burst swimming and ambush strikes in swift river channels. Breeding males develop a pronounced nuchal hump.
- Diagnostic series of 8-9 distinct spots running along the lateral line
- Up to 8 dark vertical bars along the flanks
- Prominent ocellus ringed with yellow at the upper tail base
- Long dark stripe running through the mid-body
Where it holds
- Rivers
- Lakes
Behaviour
Aggressive sight-dependent ambush predator specialising in swift main-channel current. Adults feed primarily on fish (80-90% of diet) holding near fallen timber, rocks, and structure edges that funnel prey past ambush positions. Peak activity at dawn and dusk with a midday drop-off. Feeding intensity climbs sharply above 26°C (79°F) in stable conditions and declines during pre-spawn low water. Strikes are violent and decisive — fish run straight to cover.
Diet: Baitfish, Characins, Small Cichlids, Cyprinids, Shrimp
How it's caught
Line Fishing
Spinning
Cast topwater propeller plugs, jerkbaits, soft plastics, and crankbaits tight to rocks, log jams, fallen timber, and current breaks in main river channels. Aggressive rip-pause-rip retrieves with 1-3ft rips and minimal pause trigger strikes. Bright wounded-fish colours dominate; pile on pressure immediately to keep fish clear of cover.
Live Lining
Free-line or light-weight a live 8-12cm shiner or baitfish near fallen timber and current breaks. Strong 2/0-4/0 hooks and 25-30lb fluorocarbon leader are essential. Let the fish commit fully before setting — outperforms lures during the midday lull.
Trolling
Troll deep-diving crankbaits and large jerkbaits along channel edges and transitions between shallow and deep water. Useful for locating active fish over unfamiliar water; vary depth until the strike zone is dialled in.
Fly Fishing
Streamer
Strip large 10-15cm baitfish streamers near structure and current breaks on 9-10wt tackle. Fast erratic strips with hard pauses trigger explosive strikes. Heavy shock tippet is essential to turn fish out of fallen timber.
