Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigeye pike cichlid (Crenicichla macrophthalma) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The bigeye pike cichlid is a slender predatory cichlid from fresh water of northern South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, pike-like body with conspicuously large eyes and a large mouth. As an ambush hunter it shelters among roots and plants in rivers and darts at small fish and crustaceans. It is a caring parental fish. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigeye pike cichlid?
The Bigeye pike cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Pike-like body with large eyes; ambush predatory cichlid
Where does the Bigeye pike cichlid live?
The Bigeye pike cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America
How big does the Bigeye pike cichlid get?
The Bigeye pike cichlid grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Bigeye pike cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigeye pike cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bigeye pike cichlid edible?
The Bigeye pike cichlid is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Crenicichla
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigeye pike cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigeye pike cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.