Notophthalmus Dwarf Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla notophthalmus)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Central Rio Negro in Brazil (Manaus region). Lives exclusively in flooded forests and slow rivers rich in submerged wood, in the extreme conditions of Blackwater.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Dwarf Blackwater Pike Cichlid (Crenicichla notophthalmus). One of the rare "dwarf" pike cichlids of the "wallacii" group. Small size and distinctive features in males, which develop free filaments from the dorsal fin.

Social Behavior: Very territorial, but given its size it can be kept in pairs, even if males can harass females if space is insufficient. Spends its time lying in wait among intricate branches.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Gorgeous females: they possess a black ocellus surrounded by bright red or metallic pink on the dorsal fin, in addition to a reddish or fuchsia belly. Males lose the ocellus as adults but develop spectacular, very long dorsal filaments.

Aquarium Setup: Strictly pure Blackwater setup. 80-100 cm (32-40 inches) tank densely tangled with roots (Red Moor or similar), massive leaf litter on the bottom and little to no direct light. Abundant tannins.

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator. Hunts tirelessly among the wood. Provide insects, live brine shrimp, bloodworms and daphnia. Very often ignores dry food; live feed is vital to induce reproduction.

Water Quality: Very delicate and specialized species. Requires very warm water (26-29°C / 79-84°F), with hardness close to zero (KH 0-1, very low GH) and distinctly acidic pH (4.5 - 5.5). Intolerant to fluctuations.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Cohabits only with small surface Characins (Carnegiella) and quiet armored bottom fish. Preys on fry or small shrimp. Intraspecific aggression can be lethal in small tanks.

Aquarium Reproduction: Cave spawners. They use very narrow crevices between wood or pipes. Once the pair is formed (rare and difficult if the values are not perfect), they spawn indoors. Strong parental care typical of the genus.

Risks and Diseases: Hole-in-the-head disease (Hexamita) and fungal infections guaranteed if kept in tap water with neutral pH or high bacterial load (clear waters).