Pike Cichlid Care Guide, Is This True?

I've found many care guides for pike cichlids and I don't know what to trust. I think in about three years I might try my hand on a pike Cichlid. I've been doing research on pike cichlids for about a year and recently I've seen articles that say you can keep a single pike Cichlid in a 30 gal tank! I've always heard that they are better for a 100 gal tank. If this info is true I might set up a 55 gal for one instead of a 100 gal tank. I know that bigger is always better but for extra room in my house could I keep a pike Cichlid in a 55 gal tank comfortably?

 

The smaller species of pike cichlids, such as Crenicichla regani or C. compressiceps should be fine in a 30 - the larger ones, not so much.

 

Thank you! So the bigger ones, can I keep them in a 55 or 75 gal?

 

There are nearly a hundred species of Crenicichla known and there are almost certainly more to be described. They vary a lot in size, some reach 20" and would be unsuitable even for a 100 gallon tank, while several dwarf pike species could be kept in a 30 gallon. The majority are probably between 15-30cm (6-12"). I suggest you research the species that are available to you and find out how big they grow and what size tank they need.

 

Ok I was thinking about getting a zebrina pike Cichlid, I think this fish will be best in a one hundred gallon by itself?

 

Yes I think so, there may be some other large fish you could keep with it as it is supposed to be one of the more peaceful species - and very nice looking. I haven't actually kept pike cichlids myself so definitely do as much research as possible, but yes that species will need quite a big tank.

 

Thanks so much!

 

You might find this footage interesting.