Sharpnose Pike Cichlid - (Crenicichla acutirostris- Fire Stripe)

🐟 Sharpnose Pike Cichlid – (Crenicichla acutirostris “Fire Stripe”) – Striking South American Predator for Sale

The Sharpnose Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla acutirostris “Fire Stripe”) is a sleek, elongated predatory cichlid native to the waterways of South America. Known for its pointed snout, bold lateral stripe, and distinctive red-orange “fire stripe” along the flanks, this species is both visually striking and highly active.

As an apex predator in the aquarium, it requires a spacious tank, robust filtration, and tankmates that can hold their own. While territorial, especially during breeding, it displays fascinating predatory behavior and is prized among advanced cichlid keepers.

🔎 Quick Facts – Sharpnose Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla acutirostris “Fire Stripe”)

• 📛 Common Names: Sharpnose Pike Cichlid, Fire Stripe Pike Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Crenicichla acutirostris
• 🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon Basin)
• 🎨 Appearance: Slender, elongated body; pointed snout; dark lateral stripe with vibrant red/orange “fire stripe” markings
• 📏 Max Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Occasionally available; sought after by predatory cichlid enthusiasts

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Predatory – will eat smaller tankmates
• 🐟 Territorial, especially in pairs during breeding
• 🪵 Best kept with similarly large, fast, and robust fish
• 🌊 Active swimmer, often patrolling the tank

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons (larger for pairs)
• 🪵 Provide driftwood, caves, and rock structures for hiding and territory
• 🌿 Open swimming areas combined with visual barriers
• 💡 Moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters – Sharpnose Pike Cichlid Care

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

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Fish fillets and chopped seafood
• 🦐 Frozen shrimp and krill
• 🪱 Earthworms, bloodworms, and other meaty live or frozen foods
• 🚫 Avoid feeder fish to prevent disease introduction

📋 Sharpnose Pike Cichlid Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Sharpnose Pike Cichlid is a sleek, powerful South American predator with fiery coloration and commanding presence, ideal for advanced aquarists with large, well-structured tanks.