The peacock bass is much more aggressive than the largemouth, often pursuing lures or prey larger than itself. Peacocks routinely break lines, shatter rods and destroy tackle that would subdue the toughest largemouth. Another unique difference between peacock bass and their North American counterparts is that the largest of the largemouth species are always female, while either the male or female peacock bass can grow to large portions. It is characterized by three black vertical bars along each side, and black irregular patches situated behind the eye on the cheek. This species can grow in excess of 27 pounds.
Some biologists believe it is the same subspecies as the speckled version.
The IGFA currently groups them together for world-record purposes. This subspecies possesses three dark vertical bars, as well as a series of white or pale yellow spots or broken lines, running in horizontal rows along the length to their bodies. Many experienced peacock anglers believe that this is the most powerful of the subspecies. Butterfly peacocks typically average 2-4 pounds. Keep in mind however, that in some regions of South America and Florida, the rosettes are not as obvious as in some clearer water fisheries, making them quite difficult to distinguish from the temensis.