Crenicichla regani Alenquer

28. July 2014

The
pike cichlids (Crenicichla) represent the most species-rich genus of
cichlid at all. More than 130 species have been described. How many of
them are valid is subject of discussions, but the number for sure
increases to over 90. Some species become pretty large, more than 30 cm,
but there are also real dwarf cichlids within the genus that never grow
larger than 10 cm.

One
of the latter is Crenicichla regani. The species has a wide
distribution in Amazonia and so a great number of local colour varieties
exist. The main difference between these local varieties is the
coloration of the dorsal fin of the females. The females can be easily
distinguished from the males by the fact that only the females‘ dorsal
has eye-spots (ocelli).

We
recently obtained from Brazil for the first time ever specimens
collected near Alenquer. They are beautiful, elegant fish. The species
is a cave brooder.

For
our customers: the fish have code 672203 on our stocklist. Please note
that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade. Available in very
limited numbers only!

Text & photos: Frank Schäfer