Fin's Fish Guide
The Pike cichlid (Crenicichla lugubris) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 33 cm.
Description
The pike cichlid is a large South American cichlid (Cichlidae) from the Amazon and Orinoco region. The species has an elongate, pike-like body with a large, widely distensible mouth and a dark-mottled pattern. It lives in rivers and shoreline zones, often near sunken wood and roots. As an ambush hunter it darts out at small fishes and large invertebrates. As a cichlid it is a caring substrate brooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pike cichlid?
The Pike cichlid has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Elongate, pike-like body with a large mouth; ambush predator and caring substrate brooder.
Where does the Pike cichlid live?
The Pike cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco region in South America; rivers and bank zones.
How big does the Pike cichlid get?
The Pike cichlid grows to a maximum of about 33 cm.
Is the Pike cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Pike cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pike cichlid edible?
The Pike cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Pike cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pike cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Pike cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pike cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.