Crenicichla sp. Xingu II

The XIngu II Pike Cichlid is a rarely imported, as yet undescribed species of Crenicichla found in the warm, fast-moving waters of the middle and lower Rio Xingu and its tributaries in Brazil. A member of the so-called lugubris group of Pike Cichlids, this is a large growing predatory species typically found in open waters where they feed on smaller fish and invertebrates. It can be distinguished from similar species like the Xingu I by its lack of distinct black horizontal striping as juveniles and by the black patches behind the eye and on the gill cover displayed by mature adults. In the aquarium, they require warm (82F+), well-oxygenated water and should receive regular large water changes to ensure optimal water quality. Ideal tankmates would include many of the medium to large pleco species found in the same river or some of the medium growing Myleus, Metynnis, or Leporinus species also at home in fast-moving waters.