Dwarf Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla regani is one of the smaller members of the diverse pike cichlid genus, originating from the clear and black waters of the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil. Males display an attractive combination of a bold dark lateral stripe on a speckled silver-olive body, with red-orange fin accents emerging in breeding condition. Unlike larger Crenicichla, it can be kept in relatively modest aquaria but remains a dedicated predator of small fish.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10, KH 0-4; adapts to soft and moderately hard water. Tank: 120L minimum; sandy substrate with driftwood, rocks, and cave structures essential. Feeding: Carnivore; live fish, frozen shrimp, and earthworms; adapts to meaty pellets. Behaviour: Predatory toward small fish; pairs bond strongly during breeding. Compatibility: Keep only with fish too large to be eaten; avoid mixing with small species.