White-spotted Suriname Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla albopunctata)

Pike Cichlids are a diverse lot, with species that range anywhere from just a few inches in length to the bruisers that can grow to over a foot long. Somewhere in the middle of this is the beautiful Crenicichla albopunctata, which typically reaches only around 6 inches in captivity (though closer to 8 inches in the wild).

Reports indicate that this species “occurs upstream of the first rapids, in forest creeks with moderate illumination, slow current and sandy-silty substrate” with a range that encompasses parts of French Guiana, Suriname, and Guyana.

Specimens are, as the name suggest, covered in numerous small white spots, irregularly arranged across the upper portions of the body. There is also a strong dark band running along the midbody from tip to tail, as well as a black blotch above the pectoral fins. Additionally, the operculum is often colored yellow. Note, however, that Crenicichla is a notoriously tricky group filled with numerous undescribed species, as well as confusing variations of known species. Quite a few species share a similar motif of a dark medial band and white spots, and reliable identification requires considerable expertise and knowledge of a fish’s provenance.

In aquariums, C. albopunctata is an excellent choice for a semi-aggressive South American themed tank. Good choices could include larger tetras and characins, geophagine and heroine cichlids, all sorts of mid to large-sized catfishes, and perhaps even a knifefish from the region. Given their eventual size, a moderately large aquarium is necessary, and any live plants should be robust enough to handle a bit of abuse. Males are likely to fight amongst themselves, so it’s best to acquire a male-female pair. In typical cichlid fashion, males tend to be larger and with fuller fins, while females are girthier in their belly. These differences are only noticeable in mature individuals, so a group of juveniles is the easiest way to establish a true mixed-sex pairing.

Feed a mixed diet of meaty foods and in no time you’ll be greeted with spawning, egg-laying, and an eventual cloud of fry.