Crenicichla acutirostris

Species name: Crenicichla acutirostris

Common Names:

Family: Cichlidae

Order: Perciformes (perch-likes)

Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)

Max. size: 30 cm / 12-13 inches

Environment: Freshwater

Origin: South America. Amazon River basin, in the Tapajós and Aripuanã River basins.

Temperament: Aggressive predatory fish.

Company: Other fish that is to big to be consider food, For example large south American Cichlids.

Water parameters: pH 7.0, temperature 26-28°C / 78 - 82° F

Aquarium setup: Large aquariums iare required for this relatively large species. 150-180 G is recommended for adult fishes. Aquarium should contain a lot of long narrow hiding places which is best created with the use of PVC Pipes. One to three inch diameter PVC piping cut into 6-8 inch lengths, or somewhat larger than the fish you are keeping works well. There should be at least one pipe/hiding place per fish, however more is preferable. Since this is a large predatory fish good circulation and regular water changes of 25- 40% is a must.

Feeding: Live food. The species can learn to eat frozen food and pellets, this is however much easier to accomplish with young specimens.

Breeding Females got a thin white band on the dorsal fin. pH 6.5 and 82-86 ° F (28-30 °C) Increased circulation may promote spawning. The hardest part is getting a compatible couple. It’s recommended to get a group of juvenile specimens end let them form pairs on there own. Introducing adult specimens to each other is combined with risks due to aggression. Condition the pair with lots of high quality food. Eggs are reportedly hung in cave. Fry is raised as for other cichlids. Crenicichlas is usually good parents.


Didn't find the info you were looking for? Register for free and ask your question in our Aquarium forum !
Our knowledgeable staff usually responds to any question within 24 hours

Other Crenichicla Profiles:

Crenicichla albopunctata
Crenicichla adspersa
Crenicichla alta
Crenicichla anthurus
Crenicichla brasiliensis
Crenicichla britskii
Crenicichla cametana
Crenicichla lacustris