Lenticulated Pike Cichlid (11-12”)

 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Crenicichla lenticulata

• Common Names: Lenticulated Pike Cichlid, Spotted Pike Cichlid

• Family: Cichlidae (subfamily Cichlinae, genus Crenicichla)

• Origin: South America — primarily the Rio Negro and other parts of the Amazon River Basin

• Temperament: Highly predatory and territorial, especially as adults

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Found in slow-moving or blackwater tributaries of the Amazon, including the Rio Negro, where water is warm, soft, and acidic. They favor leaf litter zones, submerged roots, and dense cover where they can ambush prey.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 78–84°F (25–29°C)

  • pH: 5.0–6.8 (soft, acidic water)

  • Requires clean, well-filtered, oxygen-rich water

  • Sensitive to poor water quality and nitrate buildup

Diet

• Carnivorous / Piscivorous:
  In the wild, they hunt:

  • Fish (primary diet)

  • Large invertebrates

  • Amphibians (occasionally)

• In Captivity:
  Feed a high-protein diet, such as:

  • Frozen/thawed foods: silversides, shrimp, krill, tilapia pieces

  • Worms: earthworms, blackworms (occasionally)

  • High-quality carnivore pellets (e.g., Northfin Carnivore, Hikari Massivore)

 Maximum Size

• Adult Size:
  Typically 12–15 inches (30–38 cm)
  Some large males may exceed 16 inches (40+ cm) under optimal conditions

• Growth Rate:
  Fast, especially with frequent feeding and warm temperatures

 Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 125 gallons 

• Ideal for a Paired/Other Large Fish Setup:

  • 180–240 gallons 

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

  • Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves, dense foliage, and visual barriers

  • Strong mechanical and biological filtration

  • Covered tank: strong swimmers and may jump

  • Moderate water flow and slightly dim lighting preferred

• Water Quality:

  • Pristine conditions essential — perform frequent water changes (30–50% weekly)

  • Use driftwood or botanicals to lower pH and soften water (if appropriate)

 Tank Mates

• • Can be kept with a proven bonded mate and other semi-aggressive fish.

  • Any tank mates must be large, robust, and fast-moving — but even then, there are no guarantees

• NOT Compatible With:

  • Small or peaceful community fish (they will be eaten or harassed)

  • Other predatory cichlids unless tank is very large and heavily structured

Notes on Behavior and Care

• Extremely territorial and aggressive, especially toward other bottom-dwelling or similar-sized fish