Peru Crenicichla (Crenicichla proteus) — 2-3cm

Overview

The Peru Crenicichla, scientifically known as Crenicichla proteus, is a striking small pike cichlid from the Amazon basin that brings bold personality, predatory behaviour, and vivid appearance to specialised aquariums. Available for freshwater fish for sale UK, this species reaches up to 5.5cm in length and thrives in tanks of at least 70 litres. Native to Peru and the Amazon basin, the Peru Crenicichla is best suited to experienced aquarists seeking rare cichlids UK with unique character.

Appearance

The Peru Crenicichla is a small, elongated pike cichlid with a streamlined body and striking coloration. The body typically displays vivid patterns of stripes, spots, or iridescent highlights. Males may develop more intense colours than females, especially during breeding. Overall, the Peru Crenicichla is a beautiful, understated predator that fits into specialised South American setups.

Natural Habitat

Native to the Amazon River basin in South America, including the Napo and Putumayo drainages in Ecuador, the Ucayali-Amazon drainage in Peru, and the upper Purus basin, the Peru Crenicichla inhabits streams with rocky substrates.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum tank size of 70 litres is suitable. Use soft sand substrate, and provide plenty of hiding places using rocks, caves, and driftwood. Filtration must be excellent. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water.

Feeding

Primarily carnivorous. Offer appropriately sized meaty foods such as small frozen/live foods and quality carnivore preparations. Avoid feeder fish.

Behaviour

A shy, retiring predator that spends much time hiding, emerging to hunt. Intelligent but remain aggressive and territorial. Not suitable for community tanks.

Tank Mates

Best kept as a species tank or with carefully selected robust tankmates. Avoid small peaceful fish, shrimp, slow, long-finned fish, peaceful community fish, and other pike cichlids unless in a very large setup. Note: Compatible and incompatible lists appear reversed in source data.

Breeding

Likely a cave or substrate spawner with pair bonding and strong parental defense. Provide spacious tank, soft water, and secluded spawning sites. Breeding pairs may become highly aggressive.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co offers healthy Peru Crenicichla with expert guidance on pike cichlid care. With secure packaging and reliable delivery, we make it easy to buy rare cichlids UK with confidence.