Chain Pickerel
NameChain Pickerel
Scientific NameEsox niger
Common NamesChain Pickerel, Eastern Pickerel, Grass Pike, Jack
FamilyEsocidae
OriginNorth America, Eastern United States, Southeastern Canada
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)24
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-75
pH Range6.0-7.5
Description
The Chain Pickerel is a highly predatory freshwater fish recognized by its distinctive chain-like pattern on its flanks. It has a long, torpedo-shaped body and a duck-bill snout equipped with sharp teeth, making it an efficient ambush predator. Due to its large size and aggressive nature, it is generally not suitable for typical home aquariums and requires a very large, species-specific setup or pond.
