All fish / Cichlidae

Pike cichlid (Saxatilia labrina)

Saxatilia labrina

Also known as crenicichla labrina, saxatilia labrina, labrina pike cichlid, pike cichlid, crenicichla sp. labrina, クレニキクラ・ラブリナ, 狗头鱼

This is a long, slender pike cichlid from the saxatilis group, which has a dark shoulder spot, a long dorsal fin and a large mouth. Males often have small pale spots along the flanks, and females have a rounded reddish belly when ready to breed. Keepers like it for its predatory hunting behaviour and its distinct pairing behaviour.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Aggressive

Adult size

25 cm

Temperature

24 to 30 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

400 litres

Keep as

Single specimen or a bonded pair

Diet

Carnivore: small fish, prawns, earthworms, mussel and good-quality pellets

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 12 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Brazil: lower Amazon basin, including the Tapajós and Xingu areas

Breeding

It spawns in caves, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. Breeding has been done in large aquariums once a compatible pair forms, but these fish can turn on each other, so you need to watch any pair closely.

Good to know

This is a large predator that eats any fish small enough to swallow and fights hard over territory. It was recently moved from Crenicichla to the genus Saxatilia, so sellers may list it under either name.