Fire Red Atabapo Pike 12-14"

Fire Red Atabapo Pike Cichlid 12–14” (Crenicichla sp. ‘Atabapo I’) – Rare Wild-Colored Predator With Jaw-Dropping Size

The Fire Red Atabapo Pike Cichlid is one of the most intensely colored and aggressive pike cichlids in the aquarium world. Originating from the blackwater Atabapo River in Venezuela, this species is famous for its flaming red flanks, metallic facial markings, and elongated predator body—a true showcase of raw South American power.

At a full 12–14 inches, these adult specimens are display-ready monsters for experienced hobbyists seeking a centerpiece predator that combines extreme beauty with deadly precision. Few fish deliver the color, size, and attitude of the Fire Red Atabapo.

🐟 Species Profile:

• Scientific Name: Crenicichla sp. ‘Atabapo I’

• Common Names: Fire Red Atabapo Pike, Atabapo Pike Cichlid

• Adult Size: 12–14 inches

• Temperament: Very aggressive, territorial, predatory

• Tank Size: 125+ gallons minimum (wide footprint recommended)

• Water Parameters: 76–82°F | pH 6.0–7.0 | Soft, acidic water (ideal)

• Diet: Carnivore – thrives on shrimp, white fish, earthworms, frozen krill, and high-protein pellets

💥 Tank Setup & Behavior:

These pikes need:

• Caves, wood, and hiding zones to reduce stress and define territory

• Heavily structured environments with minimal tankmates

• Low lighting to enhance their brilliant reds and minimize aggression

Compatible with:

• Other robust, similarly sized predators (like large datnoids, oscars, stingrays, bichirs)

• Best kept solo or as a show specimen, unless paired with expert-level knowledge of cichlid dynamics

• Not safe with small, slow, or passive fish—they will be eaten or harassed

Behaviorally, these pikes are:

• 🚀 Lightning-fast and highly territorial

• 🔥 Color-enhanced by stress-free conditions, blackwater tannins, and quality diet

• 🧠 Alert and observant, often interacting with owners and feeding from tongs

🛒 Why Buy from RobsAquatics.com?

Each Fire Red Atabapo Pike is:

• ✅ Hand-picked for size, color, and strength

• ✅ Feeding aggressively on prepared and fresh foods

• ✅ Expertly quarantined and shipped live with our Live Arrival Guarantee

• ✅ A true collector’s predator, perfect for show tanks and advanced setups

📦 Extremely limited availability – wild-type Fire Red Atabapo Pikes at this size are nearly impossible to find. Secure this South American powerhouse today—only at RobsAquatics.com.