Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid - (Crenicichla sp. Tapajos I)

🐟 Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid – (Crenicichla sp. Tapajos I) – Striking Predatory South American Cichlid for Sale

The Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla sp. Tapajos I) is a stunning, elongated predatory cichlid native to the Tapajós River basin in Brazil. Known for its brilliant red-orange coloration along the belly and flanks, contrasted with a sleek silver-gray body and distinct facial markings, this fish is both visually striking and highly intelligent.

Pike cichlids are active hunters, best kept by experienced aquarists who can provide a spacious aquarium, suitable tankmates, and a meaty diet.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla sp. Tapajos I)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid, Tapajos Pike
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Crenicichla sp. Tapajos I
• 🌍 Origin: Tapajós River basin, Brazil
• 🎨 Appearance: Slender, torpedo-shaped body with vivid red-orange underside and metallic silver-gray top
• 📏 Max Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare; usually wild-caught

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Predatory—will eat smaller fish that fit in its mouth
• 🐟 Best kept with similarly sized, fast, and robust tankmates
• 👫 Can be kept as a pair if introduced young
• 🪵 Highly intelligent and active swimmers

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for a pair
• 🌿 Sandy or fine gravel substrate
• 🪵 Driftwood, caves, and rocky structures for hiding
• 💡 Moderate lighting
• 🌊 Strong filtration and good water flow to mimic river conditions

💧 Water Parameters – Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Predator

• 🦐 Frozen shrimp, krill, and fish fillets
• 🪱 Earthworms and insect larvae
• 🐟 High-quality carnivore pellets
• 🚫 Avoid feeder fish to prevent disease introduction

📋 Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Tapajos Pike Cichlid is a vibrant, fast-moving predator perfect for aquarists looking for a large, colorful, and intelligent centerpiece from the Tapajós River.