Common Name: Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlid
Scientific Name: Crenicichla strigata
Other Names: Striated Pike Cichlid
The Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlid is a beautifully marked and highly aggressive freshwater fish that is native to the Amazon River Basin in South America. It has a sleek, elongated body with a pointed snout and a striking pattern of black and white stripes along its sides. The dorsal fin is long and pointed, while the caudal fin is fan-shaped. This species can grow up to 12 inches in length, with females generally being larger than males.
Habitat and Distribution:
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids are found in the Amazon River Basin, specifically in the Tapajos River and its tributaries. They prefer slow-moving, clear water with sandy or rocky substrates and plenty of hiding places such as submerged logs and plants. In their natural habitat, they are typically found in shallow waters.
Size and Lifespan:
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids can grow up to 12 inches in length and have a lifespan of up to 10 years in captivity.
Diet and Behavior:
In the wild, Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids feed on a variety of small fish and invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of live or frozen meaty foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and krill. They are aggressive predators and should not be housed with smaller fish or invertebrates.
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids are known for their aggressive behavior, particularly towards other fish. They should be housed in a species-only aquarium, as they will attack and potentially kill other fish. They are also territorial and require plenty of hiding places and visual barriers in their aquarium.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids require an aquarium of at least 75 gallons with plenty of hiding places such as rocks, driftwood, and plants. They prefer a sandy or rocky substrate, and a moderate to strong water flow. The aquarium should be kept at a temperature between 76-84°F, with a pH between 6.0-7.5 and a hardness between 5-12 dKH.
Regular water changes are important to maintain good water quality and reduce the risk of disease. Filtration should be strong to accommodate the high bioload of this species.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids are highly aggressive and should not be housed with any other fish or invertebrates. They should only be kept in a species-only aquarium.
Difficulty Level:
Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids are best suited for experienced fish keepers due to their highly aggressive nature and specific tank requirements.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 76-84°F
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: 5-12 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <40 ppm
Additional Information:
- Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids are highly sought after by hobbyists due to their striking appearance and aggressive nature.
- This species is not recommended for beginner fish keepers, as it requires a specific aquarium setup and can be difficult to keep with other fish.
- Tapajos Strigata Pike Cichlids have a reputation for being very intelligent and responsive to their owners.
