All fish / Cichlidae

Iguassu Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla iguassuensis

Also known as iguassu pike cichlid, iguacu pike cichlid, iguazu pike cichlid, pike cichlid, クレニキクラ・イグアスエンシス, 狗鱼慈鲷

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A long-bodied pike cichlid from the fast, rocky Iguaçu River, with an olive to brown body, darker mottling and often reddish or orange tones in the fins and belly of adults. It belongs to a group of endemic Iguaçu Crenicichla and is kept by cichlid specialists who enjoy its predatory behaviour and subtle colouring.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Aggressive

Adult size

20 cm

Temperature

18 to 25 °C

pH

6.5 to 7.5

Smallest tank

300 litres

Keep as

Singly or as a pair

Diet

Carnivore: small fish, prawns, earthworms, mussel and quality sinking pellets

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 12 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Iguaçu River basin, Brazil and Argentina

Breeding

A cave spawner that lays its eggs on the roof of a cave or under a rock, with both parents guarding the eggs and fry. Breeding in captivity is possible in a large tank with a compatible pair, but pairing can be risky because of aggression.

Good to know

It will eat any fish small enough to swallow and is very territorial towards its own kind and other bottom dwellers. It prefers cooler, well oxygenated water with good flow, so avoid warm, still tanks.