Species Profile: Crenicichla compressiceps
Scientific Name: Crenicichla compressiceps
Common Name: Dwarf Pike Cichlid
Distribution: In lower Rio Tocantins.
Habitat: Fast-flowing rapids.
Maximum Size: 3-4 inches
Minimum Tank Size: A pair can be kept satisfactorily in a 2ft tank (without tankmates).
Tank Set-up: Typical rocky rapids set-up, with a gravel substrate and smooth, rounded rocks. There should be some water currents as this species lives in fast-flowing waters. The water should also be well-oxygenated.
Temperature: 22-26 C
pH: Water with a neutral pH is preferred, but anywhere between 6.5 and 7.5 is tolerated.
Hardness: Medium hard water is preferred.
Diet: This species is a specialized invertebrate feeder in the wild. In aquaria, they can quite easily be trained to take prepared foods.
Temperament: Quite intolerant of conspecifics, but not aggressive towards other fishes.
Sexing: Females lack barring in the anal fin and develop red bellies when ready to breed.
Breeding: Same as for C. scotti, but rare in aquaria.
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