Aquarium species profile

Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla lenticulata · South America (Amazon and Orinoco basin)

Minimum tank125 gal

Adult size14"

Care levelDifficult

TemperamentHighly Aggressive

Temperature79–86°F

pH range5.5–7.5

Diet

Carnivore – live or frozen fish, large shrimp, earthworms; must be weaned off live food

Compatible tank mates

Only large robust South American cichlids, large catfish (Plecos)

Tank mates to avoid

Any fish smaller than itself — will eat; conspecifics without proper space

Care notes

Ambush predator with a long, pike-like body. Highly predatory and territorial. Requires hiding spots. Weaning from live food to frozen/prepared can be challenging. Stunning markings make them popular with advanced hobbyists. Very fast swimmers.

Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.

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