Half-banded Pike Cichlid
NameHalf-banded Pike Cichlid
Scientific NameCrenicichla semifasciata
Common NamesHalf-banded Pike Cichlid, Paraguay Pike Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Paraguay River Basin, Paraná River Basin
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)10
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Large Geophagus Cichlids, Other large, robust Cichlids (with caution), Large Catfish (e.g., Synodontis)
Description
The Half-banded Pike Cichlid is a predatory South American cichlid known for its elongated, torpedo-shaped body and distinctive vertical banding. It is an ambush predator that requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and is best kept with similarly sized, robust tankmates or as a species-only fish. Its diet consists primarily of smaller fish and invertebrates.
