Celidochilus Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla celidochilus is one of the more visually distinctive members of the genus, native to the Rio Uruguay system in Uruguay and the southernmost tip of Brazil. The species name refers to the remarkable series of ocellated (eye-like) spots running along the mid-flank — each spot encircled by a ring of iridescent scales that flash blue and green in good light.

This southern species is adapted to cooler, well-oxygenated water and does not tolerate sustained high temperatures well. A temperature of 18–26°C is appropriate, with the lower end of this range perfectly acceptable. It makes an excellent subject for an unheated or cool-water South American biotope alongside other Uruguay-basin species.

C. celidochilus is a moderately sized predator reaching about 22 cm, requiring a 220 L minimum tank with ample cover. Feeding is uncomplicated — frozen carnivore foods and quality pellets are accepted. The species has been bred in captivity, with pairs exhibiting strong cave-spawning and parental care behaviour.

Water: pH 6.5–7.8 at 18–26°C; well-oxygenated, cooler water preferred — do not overheat. Tank: 220 L with sandy substrate, flat stones, driftwood; cooler-water setup suits this temperate species. Feeding: Carnivore diet of frozen shrimp, earthworm, prawn, mussel, and quality pellets. Breeding: Cave spawner; cooler conditions (20–22°C) with gradual temperature rise may trigger spawning. Compatibility: Uruguay-basin biotope with similarly sized robust species; no small fish.