Cametana Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla cametana is a slender, medium-sized pike cichlid from the Rio Tocantins near the town of Cametá in Pará state, Brazil. It inhabits rocky and sandy-bottomed stretches of this large, fast-flowing river, and its slim hydrodynamic body is well-adapted to moderate currents. The species has a neat lateral stripe and a well-defined caudal spot that persists even in subordinate or stressed individuals.

In the aquarium, C. cametana appreciates water movement from a powerhead or canister return, mimicking the mild current of its native habitat. The tank should feature sandy areas interspersed with smooth rocks and pieces of driftwood creating natural territorial dividers. At least 200 litres of space is recommended.

The diet in captivity consists primarily of frozen carnivore foods including bloodworm, krill, prawn, and mussel, supplemented with quality cichlid pellets. The species generally settles in well and accepts prepared foods readily. Breeding follows the typical cave-spawning pattern; water temperature raised slightly to 27–28°C can help trigger spawning behaviour.

Water: Soft to medium-hard (pH 5.5–7.0) at 24–28°C; some water movement beneficial. Tank: 200 L with sandy substrate, smooth rocks, and driftwood; a powerhead for gentle current. Feeding: Frozen and prepared meaty foods accepted readily; supplement with cichlid pellets. Breeding: Cave spawner on flat rocks; pair should be well-conditioned with varied live/frozen diet. Compatibility: Best kept as a species pair; dither fish must be substantially larger than the cichlids' mouth gape.