More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 420 litres / 110.95 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 25.8cm / 10.16inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 4.0-7.0 |
General Description
The Boulengerella Lateristriga, commonly known as Striped Pike 'Characin', is characterized by its distinct features including a dorsal-fin base positioned posteriorly to a vertical through the anal-fin origin. This species is a part of the Characiformes order, which is renowned for its diverse freshwater fish species distributed among 19 families.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, it is recommended to provide surface cover such as floating or overhanging vegetation in a tank with a high proportion of dissolved oxygen and moderate water movement. Stable water conditions are essential, and weekly water changes of 30-50% aquarium volume are advisable. Due to their jumping tendencies, a tightly-fitting cover is necessary, and covering the back and sides of the aquarium can help reduce skittish behavior in confined settings.
Behaviour
The Striped Pike 'Characin' is peaceful towards larger tankmates and can be kept in a community setting, preferably with placid fishes like Geophagus or Acestrorhynchus spp. and various catfish species. While not aggressive towards conspecifics, juveniles tend to exhibit a schooling instinct. Older individuals may be more solitary but still group together periodically, suggesting they are best maintained in groups of four or more.
Feeding and Diet
As an obligate predator, this species primarily feeds on smaller fishes and insects in the wild. In captivity, they can adapt to dead alternatives; smaller specimens can be fed bloodworms, while adults accept fish flesh, prawns, mussels, and live river shrimp. Avoid feeding mammalian or avian meat like beef heart, and feeder fish due to potential health risks.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
There is no recorded information on the reproduction of the Striped Pike 'Characin'.
Habitat and Distribution
This species is typically found in blackwater rivers and tributaries with darkly stained water due to humic acids and minimal dissolved minerals. Its distribution is restricted to the Rio Negro basin in Brazil and Colombia, along with parts of the upper Río Orinoco in Venezuela.
Etymology
The genus name "Boulengerella" honors the Belgian-British zoologist George Albert Boulenger, while the species name "Lateristriga" is derived from Latin, referring to the lateral body stripe of the fish.