Johanna Pike Cichlid

Crenicichla johanna is one of the largest and most powerfully built pike cichlids in the hobby, reaching 40 cm or more in the wild. Found throughout the Amazon and Orinoco systems, it is a widespread, adaptable species that has been exported regularly for decades, though its size demands respect — a well-grown adult requires an enormous aquarium to thrive.

Despite its imposing size, C. johanna has a relatively streamlined body with a bold dark lateral band and a bright silvery flank that catches the light effectively. In a very large, well-filtered aquarium it makes a spectacular solitary display fish. Filtration must be extremely robust, as large carnivorous cichlids produce considerable waste.

Feeding large individuals demands appropriately sized prey: frozen whole fish, giant river prawns, large earthworms, and mussel are all suitable. Quality large cichlid pellets and sticks can form a dietary staple. The species is not suited to community tanks — at full size it will predate virtually any co-inhabitant.

Water: pH 5.5–7.0 at 24–28°C; soft to moderately hard; exceptional filtration mandatory. Tank: 600 L minimum for a single adult; a truly impressive display tank project. Feeding: Large prey items fed 2–3 times per week; overfeeding causes water quality issues. Breeding: Requires exceptional space; cave spawner with strong biparental care. Compatibility: Species tank only — one of the largest pike cichlids; no safe tankmates.