Boulengerella Lucius

Datasheet

General Description

Boulengerella lucius, commonly known as the Pike Characin, is a species of obligate predator from the family Ctenoluciidae within the order Characiformes. It has a maximum size of 42.0cm and a minimum tank size requirement of 10,000 liters. This species is pelagic and usually found in main river channels, larger tributaries, and floodplain lakes. Juveniles and subadults are sometimes available in the aquarium trade, often confused with a closely related species, Boulengerella maculata.

Aquarium Setup

The Pike Characin is relatively undemanding in terms of tank setup, appreciating some surface cover like floating vegetation or branches. An aquarium with high dissolved oxygen levels and moderate water movement is ideal, requiring external filters, powerheads, and airstones as needed. Stable water conditions are essential, necessitating weekly water changes of 30-50% tank volume. Due to their jumping nature, a secure lid is crucial, and covering the back and sides of the tank can help reduce stress in confined spaces.

Behaviour

This species is peaceful with larger tankmates they cannot swallow, making it suitable for community tanks if chosen carefully. It can be territorial, particularly with aggressive or competitive species. B. lucius does not display aggression towards conspecifics, with juveniles exhibiting schooling behavior. While older individuals may become more solitary, they still group occasionally and are best kept in groups of four or more.

Feeding and Diet

As an obligate predator, the Pike Characin primarily feeds on smaller fishes and insects in the wild. In captivity, they adapt well to dead food alternatives. Juveniles can be fed bloodworms, small earthworms, or prawns, while adults accept fish flesh, shrimp, mussels, and live river shrimp. Avoid feeding mammalian or avian meat like beef heart, as it can lead to health issues. Offering feeder fish is discouraged due to the risk of disease transmission unless properly conditioned.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproduction of B. lucius is currently unrecorded, and distinguishing between sexes or reproductive behaviors is challenging. However, it is noted that this species is not aggressive towards conspecifics, and juveniles tend to exhibit schooling behavior, suggesting potential social interactions during breeding periods.

Habitat and Distribution

The Pike Characin is native to the central Amazon region in Brazil and the Río Orinoco in Venezuela. Past records from other locations have often been misattributed to similar species like Acestrorhynchus. Adult Boulengerella lucius prefer pelagic environments in main river channels, larger tributaries, and both white and black water rivers, including floodplain lakes.