Common Name: Zebra Pike Cichlid
Scientific Name: Crenicichla zebrina
The Zebra Pike Cichlid is a wild-caught pike cichlid from Venezuela and one of the more striking members of its group. It has the long, torpedo-shaped body and large mouth typical of pike cichlids, and its trade name refers to the barred pattern it is known for. It is highly sought after by South American cichlid enthusiasts for its striking appearance and bold, interactive personality.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Zebra Pike Cichlid comes from the Rio Ventuari in the upper Orinoco basin of Venezuela, where it lives in rocky rapids with strong current and high oxygen levels. The water in these habitats is typically warm, soft and slightly acidic, and submerged wood, rocks and leaf litter provide cover.
Size and Lifespan:
Adults reach about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
Zebra pike cichlids are carnivorous ambush predators that feed on small fish, insects and crustaceans in the wild. In the aquarium, offer carnivore pellets along with frozen krill, shrimp and silversides. They are aggressive and predatory, and are best kept singly or with robust tank mates too large to swallow. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Pike cichlids are cave spawners. A bonded pair will clean out a cave or crevice where the female lays her eggs, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. Pairs can become very aggressive while breeding, so a large tank with plenty of broken sight lines is needed. This species is rarely bred in home aquariums.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 125 gallons is recommended for an adult, with strong water movement. The tank should include rockwork, driftwood and caves to break up sight lines, a sand substrate, strong filtration and good oxygenation. A secure lid is recommended. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. Regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Keep them with robust, similarly sized fish that cannot be swallowed, such as eartheaters, other medium to large South American cichlids, plecos and larger catfish. Avoid small or timid fish, which will be eaten or harassed. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. Its predatory nature, aggression and need for strong flow and high oxygen make it best suited for experienced keepers. It is recommended only for experienced aquarists with the resources to meet its long-term needs.
Water Parameters:
-
Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
-
pH: 6.5-7.5
-
General Hardness (GH): 2-10 dGH
-
Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-6 dKH
-
Ammonia: 0 ppm
-
Nitrite: 0 ppm
-
Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- It comes from rocky rapids, so strong filtration and water movement are important.
- Pike cichlids are ambush predators that often hover motionless before striking at prey.
- Wild-caught fish may initially need frozen foods before accepting pellets.
The Zebra Pike Cichlid is a bold, rarely seen predator for experienced keepers with a large, high-flow aquarium.
