Compressiceps dwarf pike cichlid

Care at a glance

Overview

A single fish or a pair fits a tank of at least 110 liters at 24 to 28 C and pH 5.5 to 7.0, with good flow and oxygen. Provide caves and dense structure to break up territory. Feed meaty foods such as frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. It is aggressive for its size and will attack fish up to half its length.

In the wild

The compressiceps dwarf pike cichlid lives in the lower Rio Tocantins and Araguaia basins of Brazil. It hides among rocks and leaf litter in fast, oxygen-rich water. It is one of the smallest pike cichlids but keeps a fierce temper. Provide rocks, wood, caves, and good water movement.

Good to know

Crenicichla compressiceps was described by Ploeg in 1986 and reaches about 8 cm, with males larger than females. Recent work moved it to the genus Wallaciia, though the trade still uses the old name. It has a bright red-orange belly and fins with dark barring.

Did you know

It is a secretive cave spawner, and a bonded pair will raise fry together inside a hidden crevice.

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