Crenicichla Strigata

Datasheet

General Description

The Striped Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla Strigata) is a common species of pike cichlid found in the Lower Amazon basin in Guyana and Brazil. It belongs to the family Cichlidae within the Cichlinae subfamily and can grow up to 40.0cm in size. This species is known for being susceptible to hole in the head disease, which is more commonly seen in discus and oscars.

Aquarium Setup

To house the Striped Pike Cichlid, a minimum tank size of 1000 litres is recommended. The tank should have a sand substrate as these fish like to dig and rearrange decor. Providing rockwork to form caves is essential, along with robust plants, ideally potted or rooted to bogwood. The water conditions should maintain a pH range of 6.0-7.0, hardness of 0-20 dH, and a temperature of 23-27°C (see table).

Behaviour

Striped Pike Cichlids can exhibit aggressive behavior, especially towards conspecifics. They can be housed with other large cichlids or kept in a species-only setup. These pikes have large mouths and may consume any fish small enough to be considered food.

Feeding and Diet

A varied diet is essential for Striped Pike Cichlids. They should be fed a high-quality cichlid pellet or flake, along with live or frozen foods like bloodworm or brineshrimp. Including meaty foods such as prawn and mussel, as well as vegetable matter in the form of spirulina or algae wafers, is recommended.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

There are no reports of breeding Striped Pike Cichlids in the hobby. Sexual dimorphism is exhibited in the females, who have a pink-colored belly.

Habitat and Distribution

These cichlids are native to the Lower Amazon basin in Guyana and Brazil, although they are not found in the main river itself. The natural habitat comprises areas with sand substrate, rocks for shelter, and robust vegetation.