Dwarf pike cichlids, Crenicichla sp.

[Samala]

I was wondering if anyone here has kept any of the dwarf pike cichlids (C. regani and notophthalmus especially) and could give recommendations on a setup that is conducive to keeping them happy. Good info. would include sex ratios, total number fish, smallest gallonage considered "safe", decor, temperature/pH/hardness, etc.

I HAVE checked out Vinny Kutty's site on the pike cichlids, but I'm trying to get a feel for what other people have had success with in keeping these beauties.

Also.. anyone have a source for either C. regani or notophthalmus? They're supposed to be fairly available but I have NEVER seen them in my area.

Thanks!

[Orchids]

I have kept both dwarf and regular sized pikes for many years. I keep them both in similar, but scaled down, environments. Plenty of places to hide is all I ever provide. My favorite "dwarf" species are Cr. regani and Cr. "belly crawler" I currently house several regani in a 58 gal and all are doing well. They are very mild and are better suited for group living.

[Marcus]

I currently have a pair each of Cr. regani 'Tefe' & Cr. regani 'Xingu'. I have found that they can be pretty rough on each other.

The pair of 'Tefe' are in a 60 gallon tank with several large tetras and 4 small G. altifrons 'Black Cheek'. The tank is heavily decorated with rocks and caves. Even so, the male chases after the female incessantly. About the only time I ever see her is when she darts out for a quick morsel. Then it's righ back under the rocks.

The pair of 'Xingu' had to be seperated... the female was whoopin' the male. I'm hopeful that I can put them back together once I get another 60 gallon tank.

I would be hesitant to try and keep a pair in anything smaller than 55 gallons.

Most dwarf pikes come from slow flowing, soft, acidic waters. There is little foliage or rockwork with the majority of the cover coming from sunken leaves. The pikes feed mostly on insects with the occasional Apistogramma fry.

I have had difficulty getting mine to eat preparred foods and still feed mostly frozen blood and glass worms with an occasional feeding of live black worms.

As far as acquiring these fish go, you may need to go with mail order. I have seen dwarf pikes listed at www.aquabid.com. Also, there is a great place in Phillipsburg, NJ called Tangled Up In Cichlids. He doesn't sell to walk in traffic but you may be able to find a local fish store that buys from him. Check it out and send Jeff an e-mail. He's a great guy and easy to work with. www.tangledupincichlids.com