Fin's Fish Guide
The Pike characin (Boulengerella cuvieri) is a freshwater fish of the family Ctenoluciidae that grows up to 88 cm.
Description
The pike characin (Boulengerella cuvieri) is a large, slender predator of the family Ctenoluciidae from northern South America. The species has a strongly elongate, silvery body with a pointed, beak-like snout full of small teeth, and can reach about 88 cm. It usually stays at the surface of fast-flowing water, behind obstacles such as rocks and logs, where it lies in wait for passing fishes. Smaller individuals also occur in calmer water. As a fast ambush predator it hunts almost exclusively other fishes. Owing to its size the species is of local fishery importance and is sometimes kept as a juvenile in the aquarium.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pike characin?
The Pike characin has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strongly elongated body with a beak-shaped snout; surface stalking predator of other fishes.
Where does the Pike characin live?
The Pike characin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fast-flowing rivers of northern South America.
How big does the Pike characin get?
The Pike characin grows to a maximum of about 88 cm.
Is the Pike characin dangerous to humans?
No, the Pike characin 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 Pike characin edible?
The Pike characin is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Boulengerella
More from the family Ctenoluciidae
Want the complete picture on the Pike characin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pike characin is one of 12,519 species in the app.