All fish / Cichlidae

Haroldo's Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla haroldoi

Also known as haroldo's pike cichlid, haroldoi pike cichlid, crenicichla haroldoi, dwarf pike cichlid, クレニキクラ・ハロルドイ, 哈罗德狗头鱼

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A small, slender pike cichlid with a long dorsal fin, a dark lateral marking and fine spotting on a brownish body. It is part of the dwarf pike cichlid group that lives among rocks in flowing streams. Keepers value it as a manageable pike cichlid with lots of character that fits a medium-sized tank.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

10 cm

Temperature

20 to 26 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

100 litres

Keep as

Single pair or one specimen

Diet

Carnivore: insect larvae, bloodworm, shrimp, earthworms and meaty frozen foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 8 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Upper Paraná River basin, Brazil

Breeding

It spawns in caves, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. Breeding a well-matched pair in a tank with plenty of caves is quite achievable, but finding a compatible pair can take some time.

Good to know

It defends its territory against other bottom dwellers and will eat very small fish or shrimp. Because it comes from subtropical streams, it needs well-oxygenated water with some current rather than very warm conditions.