The peacock cichlid, often referred to as the "peacock bass" (Cichla spp.), is a vibrant and highly prized freshwater game fish native to the river systems of South America, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Renowned for their striking coloration and aggressive fighting spirit, peacock cichlids attract sport anglers from around the globe. Brazil stands out as the top country for peacock cichlid fishing, especially in the Rio Negro and its tributaries, followed by Colombia and Venezuela, where the species thrives in warm, slow-moving waters. While the commercial harvest of peacock cichlids is limited due to their value as a sport fish and their ecological importance, the recreational fishing industry in these countries generates significant tourism revenue, supporting local economies and promoting conservation efforts. In recent years, peacock cichlids have also been introduced to countries like the United States (notably Florida), where they are managed as a popular sport fish rather than for commercial harvest.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Panama | 16 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.