Care
Regan's Dwarf Pike Cichlid is known from much of the Amazon basin, where it is found in the calmer waters of small tributaries that are thick with leaf litter and submerged roots. This beautiful, elongate dwarf cichlid must be provided with soft, acidic water if it is to thrive in the home aquarium. Due to its territorial nature, this species requires a large aquarium compared to its eventual adult size, along with a soft sandy substrate and plenty of nooks and crannies formed from piles of pebbles, rocks, pieces of smooth slate, and tangles of driftwood - ensuring that there are some broken lines of sight for the fish to set up territories. Unfortunately, plants grown in the substrate may be uprooted, but species such as Anubias and Java Fern can be tied onto and cultivated on the driftwood. This will not only help with water quality, but will make the aquarium look more aesthetically pleasing, as well as creating more welcome hiding places. Dried Indian Almond Leaves (Terminalia catappa) could be placed on top of the substrate to create a more natural feel, and as these gradually decompose, they will release tannins that will not only help to acidify the water, but will also bring out the best colours of the fish (these leaves will require periodic replacement). Filtration should be efficient, with areas of moderate water movement and some quieter resting spots out of the current. Small, frequent water changes will help keep nitrate to a minimum. This is a mildly aggressive species that is probably the gentlest of the Crenicichla genus. However, they are still somewhat territorial and will predate on smaller fish. The best way to keep these cichlids is either as a known compatible pair, or in dense groups (10+) within more spacious aquaria. Ideally, try and outnumber males with females, and remember that groups which are too small could result in constant territorial bickering and subsequent losses. A larger group (housed in a tank with a multitude of visual barriers) will ensure that no one fish bears the brunt of any squabbles and is subjected to constant stress - any arguments will be spread throughout the group. These cichlids will be at their best in a species-only aquarium, but can be kept with other robust softwater fish that are of similar size (anything smaller will be regarded as food). Ensure that the tank has tight fitting coverslides as these fish are expert jumpers.
Feeding
Small frozen foods such as bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, daphnia, and Mysis shrimp. Will also take sinking pellets/tablets/granules.
Breeding
Cave spawner. This species has been bred in the home aquarium. Following an elaborate courtship dance, up to 100 eggs will be deposited/fertilised on the ceiling of a cave, which could be a small rocky crevice or a hole in a piece of driftwood. The eggs should hatch within 3-4 days, with the fry becoming free-swimming several days later. Both adults exhibit great parental care.
