Xingu III Pike Cichlid (Lugubria dandara)

The XIngu III or Xingu Black Pike Cichlid is a rarely imported, recently described 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 II by its dark, almost uniform black body coloration in adults and the lack of a clearly defined caudal spot. 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.