Dwarf Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla lepidota)

Description:
The Dwarf Pike Cichlid is a streamlined, elongated cichlid known for its subtle earthy coloration, ranging from brown to olive with dark lateral blotches along its body. The dorsal fin often features a hint of red along the edges, especially in mature specimens. Despite being smaller than other pike cichlids, it retains a bold and predatory nature, making it a captivating choice for experienced aquarists.

Size:
Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

Aquarium Size:
A minimum of 40 gallons is recommended for a single Dwarf Pike Cichlid, with larger tanks required for pairs or community setups due to their territorial nature.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.0 to 7.0

• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Temperament:
Dwarf Pike Cichlids are semi-aggressive and can be territorial, especially during breeding. While they generally ignore midwater species, they can be aggressive toward bottom dwellers or smaller fish they may perceive as prey.

Group Size:
Best kept singly or as a bonded pair. Keeping multiple Dwarf Pike Cichlids requires a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spaces.

Compatibility:
They can be housed with similarly sized, fast-moving fish such as larger tetras, rainbowfish, and peaceful cichlids like Severums and Geophagus. Avoid housing them with small fish or invertebrates, as they will likely be seen as prey.

Diet:
Carnivorous. They thrive on a protein-rich diet including live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms, and feeder fish. They can be trained to accept high-quality sinking carnivore pellets over time.

Care Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. Dwarf Pike Cichlids require stable water quality, regular maintenance, and a well-structured aquarium to thrive.

Planted Aquarium:
They can be kept in planted tanks, but plants should be hardy or attached to hardscape as they may disturb softer plants while foraging.

Invertebrate Compatibility:
Not suitable for tanks with small invertebrates like shrimp or snails, as they are likely to be consumed.

Additional Notes:
Dwarf Pike Cichlids benefit from a well-decorated aquarium with caves, driftwood, and rocky formations to establish territories and reduce stress. Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality due to their predatory diet.

Disclaimer:
Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.