Crenichla Red Atabapo (Big Super Red)

The Crenichla Red Atabapo, often referred to as the Big Super Red Pike Cichlid, is a stunning and highly sought-after variant of the Crenichla species. Known for its vibrant red coloration, particularly on the fins and body, this species is a striking addition to any aquarium. Native to the Atabapo River in the Amazon Basin of South America, it is a territorial and predatory fish that requires specific care to thrive in captivity.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • The Crenichla Red Atabapo can grow to around 12–14 inches in length, so it requires a spacious tank. A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a single individual. If you plan on keeping more than one or other large fish, consider a 100-gallon or larger tank to provide ample space for their territory and swimming needs.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: A smooth substrate such as sand or fine gravel is ideal. This is gentle on their fins and barbels.
  • Decor:
    • Incorporate rocks, driftwood, and plant roots to create hiding spots and areas for establishing territories.
    • The tank should have open swimming areas while also providing some cover for the fish to retreat when necessary. These cichlids are quite territorial and will establish areas they protect.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is fine, but some shading or cover from decorations is ideal. Crenichla Red Atabapo prefers subdued lighting with some darker areas where they feel secure.
• Water Flow:
  • Crenichla species, including the Red Atabapo, prefer a gentle to moderate water flow. Strong currents are not suitable for them, as they originate from slow-moving waters.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: 2–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm
• Water Changes: Perform 20–30% water changes weekly to maintain optimal water conditions. Pike cichlids are sensitive to poor water quality, and regular water changes will help ensure a healthy environment.

Diet

The Crenichla Red Atabapo is a carnivorous species, and its diet should mimic that of its natural environment in the wild. They are ambush predators, so their diet consists mainly of smaller fish and invertebrates.

• Staple Foods:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets designed for carnivores. Ensure they are sinking pellets, as these fish often forage at the bottom of the tank.
• Live or Frozen Foods:
  • Offer live foods such as feeder fish (guppies, minnows), earthworms, bloodworms, krill, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp.
  • Frozen food such as frozen shrimp, mysis, and high-protein frozen foods also make good choices.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed 1–2 times a day with enough food for them to consume in 3–5 minutes. Remove uneaten food to prevent water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • The Crenichla Red Atabapo is a territorial and aggressive fish, especially as it matures. It will actively defend its space against other fish.
  • These fish are not suitable for community tanks with small or peaceful fish. They may see smaller species as prey.
• Activity Level:
  • Crenichla Red Atabapo is an active and predatory fish. They will patrol their territory, waiting for potential prey to pass by.
  • They are solitary hunters and prefer to have a large personal space, often taking shelter in caves or behind decorations.
• Tankmates:
  • Crenichla Red Atabapo is best kept with larger, aggressive species such as other large cichlids, robust catfish, or other robust predatory fish that can hold their ground in a tank.
  • Avoid housing with smaller or peaceful fish, as they will likely be seen as prey.
  • Pike cichlids can become particularly aggressive during breeding, so it’s important to choose tankmates carefully.

Breeding

Breeding the Crenichla Red Atabapo in captivity is possible, but it requires specific conditions.

1. Breeding Tank Setup:
   • Set up a breeding tank with smooth, flat surfaces for egg-laying, such as rocks or slate.
   • Maintain slightly acidic water with a temperature around 78–80°F (25–27°C).
2. Conditioning:
   • Condition the breeding pair by offering high-protein foods, such as live feeder fish, brine shrimp, and earthworms.
3. Spawning:
   • The female will lay eggs on a chosen surface, typically in a cave or on a flat rock. The male fertilizes the eggs. Both parents are typically very protective of their eggs, guarding them aggressively.
4. Fry Care:
   • Once the eggs hatch, the fry will become free-swimming in about 3–5 days. The parents will care for the fry, moving them to different hiding spots if necessary.
   • Feed the fry infusoria, liquid fry food, or microworms initially, then progress to baby brine shrimp or finely crushed pellets once they grow larger.

Common Challenges

1. Aggression:
   • Crenichla Red Atabapo is a territorial predator, and aggression can be a significant issue in a community tank. It is best to house them with other robust, aggressive fish that can withstand their territorial nature.
2. Water Quality:
   • Like most pike cichlids, they are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes and excellent filtration are essential.
   • High-quality water conditions (low ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates) are vital to prevent stress and health issues.
3. Feeding:
   • Maintaining a diet high in live food can be challenging. Ensure they receive sufficient protein and variety in their diet to mimic their natural hunting behavior.
4. Tank Space:
   • This species requires a lot of space, not just for swimming but also for establishing and defending territories. Ensure the tank is large enough to reduce stress and allow the fish to move freely.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	Minimum 75 gallons (100 gallons ideal)
Water Parameters	pH 6.0–7.5, 75–82°F, soft to moderately hard water
Diet	Carnivorous: live and frozen foods, cichlid pellets
Temperament	Territorial, aggressive, solitary predator
Lifespan	8–12 years

The Crenichla Red Atabapo is a magnificent but challenging fish. Its bright red coloration and predatory behavior make it a showstopper in the aquarium, but its territorial nature requires careful tank planning and proper maintenance. This species is best suited for experienced hobbyists who can provide an appropriate environment and feeding regime.