Acutirostris Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla acutirostris is a slender, sharply pointed pike cichlid native to the Rio Branco drainage of northern Brazil. Its most immediately recognisable feature is an unusually acute rostrum — longer and more tapered than most pike cichlids — an adaptation that allows it to strike small fish and invertebrates with tremendous precision in fast-flowing, clear-water tributaries.

In the aquarium, C. acutirostris thrives in a spacious tank of at least 200 litres decorated with driftwood, flat rocks, and a sandy substrate. Water should be soft and slightly acidic, matching the naturally tannin-stained Rio Branco environment. The species is bold and assertive, and a clear territory must be established for each individual to minimise aggression.

Feeding is straightforward once acclimated: live and frozen foods such as earthworms, shrimp, and fish strips are eagerly taken, and quality carnivore pellets can be introduced over time. Breeding follows the cave-spawning pattern typical of the genus, with eggs guarded on flat surfaces inside caves or under driftwood.

Water: Soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0, 0–8 dGH) at 24–28°C is essential; use RO or rainwater top-ups to maintain these parameters. Tank: 200 L minimum with sandy substrate, multiple caves, driftwood, and limited open space to define territories. Feeding: Feed meaty foods daily — earthworms, frozen shrimp, mussel, and cichlid pellets; avoid feeder fish to prevent parasites. Breeding: Cave spawner; condition with live foods, raise temperature slightly, and provide flat-topped rocks or coconut shells as spawning sites. Compatibility: Keep alone or with robust dither fish; incompatible with any fish small enough to be eaten.