Crenicichla acutirostris Care Guide
Crenicichla acutirostris is an Amazonian pike cichlid with an elongated pointed head, a predatory species for large soft-water aquaria.
Overview
Crenicichla acutirostris is a pike cichlid from the Amazon basin with the elongated, pointed head typical of the genus. Pike cichlids are ambush predators with a wide mouth and pike-like body. Following the 2023 generic revision of Crenicichla, this species has been placed by some authorities in the genus Lugubria.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Crenicichla
- Scientific name: Crenicichla acutirostris
- Note: also treated as Lugubria acutirostris (Günther, 1862) (FishBase).
Habitat
The species occurs in the Amazon basin, in the Tapajós and Aripuanã river drainages in Brazil. Like other pike cichlids it inhabits rivers and streams, taking cover near submerged wood and rock.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 25-29 °C (77-84 °F)
- pH: 5.0-7.0
- GH: 2-8 °dGH
- Lifespan: 7-10 years
Diet
Crenicichla acutirostris is carnivorous, with a high trophic level. Pike cichlids feed on fish, insects and other small animals, ambushing prey from cover. Suitable aquarium foods include meaty live and frozen items appropriate to the fish's size.
Compatibility
This species is semi-aggressive and predatory. It should not be kept with small fish or shrimp, which it will treat as prey, and is best combined with robust mid-sized tankmates in a large aquarium.
Breeding
Crenicichla species are generally cave spawners with biparental care of eggs and fry.