crenicichla proteus

A smaller growing pike in the saxatilis group, the Proteus Pike Cichlid (Saxatilia proteus) is found throughout Peru and Ecuador where it inhabits shallow water areas with ample cover. Despite their relatively small adult size, they are aggressive and territorial much like their larger relatives. In the aquarium, they are a hardy species and will readily take to frozen foods. They can be successfully kept in groups but should be provided plenty of cover so each fish can defend its own territory. The addition of dither fish like larger tetra species can help diffuse aggression.