Cobra Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla sp)

Cobra Pike Cichlid — Crenicichla sp.

Coiled pattern. Calculated strike.

The Cobra Pike Cichlid is a long, streamlined South American predator known for its intricate, snake-like patterning. A bronze to olive base is overlaid with maze-like dark markings that resemble cobra skin, often highlighted with subtle red or orange along the fins. The elongated snout and oversized mouth complete the classic pike profile — built for speed, precision, and ambush.

Native to flowing river systems across South America, Crenicichla species are highly visual hunters. The Cobra Pike hovers near structure or in open lanes, watching carefully before launching forward with explosive acceleration. It is alert, intelligent, and highly aware of its surroundings, quickly associating movement outside the tank with feeding time.

Growing to 12–18+ inches depending on lineage, this species becomes a dominant midwater predator and an impressive centerpiece for large South American setups.

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Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons (6 ft length minimum recommended)

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Flow: Moderate current

• Décor: Driftwood and rock structure with open swimming lanes

• Lighting: Moderate to subdued (enhances pattern contrast)

• Cover: Tight-fitting lid required — strong jumper

• Filtration: Strong biological filtration essential

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Tank Mates

Best housed with similarly sized, confident species:

• Arowana

• Large catfish

• Datnoids

• Bichirs

• Larger, non-hyper aggressive cichlids

Avoid small or slender fish — they will be eaten. Avoid extremely aggressive species that may cause constant territorial disputes.

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Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Water Quality: Clean, stable conditions required

• Oxygen: Moderate to high

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Diet

Carnivorous:

• Fish fillet

• Shrimp and prawn

• Worms and insects

• High-quality carnivore pellets (once trained)