Crenicara Latruncularium

Datasheet

General Description

The Crenicara Latruncularium, a member of the Cichlidae family under the Geophaginae category, is a peaceful cichlid species that adds interest to South American aquarium setups. With a maximum size of 9.0cm, these cichlids prefer habitats similar to their native Rio Guaporé in western Brazil and Rio Mamoré in Bolivia.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, a well-planted aquarium with ample cover such as wood, rocks, and floating plants is recommended. The water conditions should ideally have a pH range of 6.0-7.0, a temperature between 24-28°C, and a water hardness of 0-10°dH (see table).

Behaviour

Typically peaceful, the Crenicara Latruncularium can exhibit more aggressive behavior during breeding. They can coexist in a community tank with fish like tetras, rasboras, small catfish (e.g., corydoras), and other peaceful species except when breeding.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding on high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes is essential for these fish. Their diet should be supplemented with a variety of frozen and live foods and a vegetative component like algae wafers or spirulina flakes.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

During spawning, these cichlids prefer caves, with females fiercely guarding their territory. The male, distinguished by its larger size and prominent coloration, may need to be removed once the fry are free-swimming. Fry can be nourished with newly-hatched brine shrimp and transitioned to adult foods as they grow.

Habitat and Distribution

Found primarily in the Rio Guaporé in western Brazil and Rio Mamoré in Bolivia, the Crenicara Latruncularium thrives in such freshwater habitats. Rare in the UK hobbyist scene, these cichlids offer a unique addition to aquarists aiming for a South American biotope setup.