Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla lenticulata)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Pike Cichlid

Quick facts

Scientific nameCrenicichla lenticulata
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asLenticulata, Crenicichla, True Pike Cichlid
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentAggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size16 in
Minimum tank size150 gallons
Water parametersTemp 76-84°F, pH 5.5-7.2, GH 3-15 dGH

Appearance

Elongated, torpedo-shaped cichlid with a large mouth, mottled brown-green pattern and dark blotches; built for ambush predation.

Difficulty and care for the Pike Cichlid

Hard

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon and Orinoco basins)

Keeper notes

A large pike cichlid and ambush predator; eats fish and is aggressive toward similarly shaped tankmates. Jumps when startled.

Log Pike Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Pike Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.