Pike Cichlids (Crenicichla sp.)

[Ross W]

I have been thinking of trying to get a breeding pair of pike cichlids from a small group of young juveniles. I have done some research on Crenicichla Xingu 1 (orange pike) and Crenicichla marmorata (marbled pike). There is not very much out there that I can find but what I have found is basically that they are very aggressive (especially to other pikes) and that they are not very readily available. My LFS has had a few oranges in the past but is currently unable to put their hands on them now that I would like to try to get some.

Does anyone have any experience with these fish or any information regarding care and where I might find some? Are there any online fish retailers that deal with not-so-common fish. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Ross

 

[Z Man]

Ross, Unless you have an extremely huge tank, I would not suggest the pikes you mention. I know that Wayne Leible did work with C. marmorata a long time ago. I do believe he did get some fry but I don't think they lasted long. Also the Xingu group has been bred a few times. I did have some Xingu here but they all are gone now. Some died due to aggression and others got 'Hole in the Head' and I gave them to a guy who said he could cure it but they died on him anyway. I would suggest you start by working with the smaller pikes such as C. regani, C. sp. Pacaya or even C. saxatillis. You can get a lot of information on Vinny Kutty's site at www.geocities.com/NapaValley/5491 I have bred the 3 pikes I named but they were not easy either. I know that Don Atkinson has pikes for sale at http://www.aquatico-stl.com/sys-tmpl/door

 

[wishbobwouldlay]

xingu I

hey ross! my story is this: first came across the "pack" (they look like little wolverines in a pack) of orange pikes 2 years ago - had to have one. was given one for my birthday. we now regret not having gotten 3-4 (for possible breeding purposes - large specimens seem hard to find) she has turned out to be one hell of a beautiful fish. she is now 8", and has gone into the full wine belly spawning colours. i haven't gotten too much positive feedback on success of breeding in captivity, but would still like to try. we have her solo in an 80 gal tank w/some plants. feed her worms, emerald entree and cichild pellets, with an occasional danio from time to time; must be careful about feeding the live fish though - not a good idea unless you have a quarantine tank-and never goldfish!!!! we have come close to HIH, but seems like the hardcore greens have thwarted it!!!! vitamins are a key. other than our uaru, i haven never had a fish that has so much personality. kim

 

[scott]

Try Jeff Rapps . He's got tons of cool fish.