Fin's Fish Guide
The Reticulate pike cichlid (Crenicichla reticulata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The reticulate pike cichlid is a large, elongate predatory cichlid from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. The species grows to about 30 cm and has a slender, pike-like body with a large mouth and a fine net-like pattern on the flanks. As an ambush hunter it shelters among roots, wood 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 Reticulate pike cichlid?
The Reticulate pike cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Pike-like body with a net-like flank pattern; ambush predatory cichlid
Where does the Reticulate pike cichlid live?
The Reticulate pike cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon and Orinoco basins
How big does the Reticulate pike cichlid get?
The Reticulate pike cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Reticulate pike cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Reticulate 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 Reticulate pike cichlid edible?
The Reticulate pike cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Reticulate pike cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Reticulate pike cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.