Fin's Fish Guide
The Pikehead (Luciocephalus pulcher) is a freshwater fish of the family Osphronemidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The pikehead is a labyrinth fish (Osphronemidae) from Southeast Asia. The species has an elongate, pike-like body with a pointed head and a strongly protrusible mouth with which it sucks up prey. As a labyrinth fish it can gulp air at the surface with an accessory organ. It lives in streams and flooded forest among dense vegetation and ambushes small fishes and shrimps. The male broods the eggs in his mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pikehead?
The Pikehead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Pike-like with a highly protrusible mouth; air-breathing ambush predator, the male is a mouthbrooder.
Where does the Pikehead live?
The Pikehead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia; streams and flooded forest.
How big does the Pikehead get?
The Pikehead grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Pikehead dangerous to humans?
No, the Pikehead is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pikehead edible?
The Pikehead is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Osphronemidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pikehead is one of 12,519 species in the app.