This large Mystus is not often seen in the hobby. It makes a fine bottom dweller for communities containing other robust species. It is used as a food fish in many of it's native countries….

A strikingly marked species that is rarely seen in the hobby in the UK.

One of the more commonly available pike cichlids in the UK, c. strigata is often bought by fishkeepers unaware of the adult size of these fish.

Are reported to be susceptible to hole in the head disease, more commonly seen in discus and oscars….

An attractive and colourful fish when small, this species quickly grows into a large aggressive adult, requiring a large tank.

Crenicichla proteus is occasionally offered for sale. It is one of the smaller pike cichlids, although more than makes up for that in terms of aggression!

As stated, this fish is found across most of the Amazon basin. As a result, a number of different colour forms have developed. This pike is fairly common in the hobby due to its broad geographic range.

Rarely seen in the hobby in the UK, but makes an interesting addition to a South American setup.

A hardy and robust fish that can tolerate and breed in full marine conditions. The Mayan cichlid is also referred to as the Mexican Mojarra and is occasionally offered for sale in the UK, or can be obtained through specialist cichlid dealers.

This species is regarded as a potential pest fish in the USA due to its tolerance of a wide range of conditions and the threat it could pose to native fauna….

Sometimes referred to (incorrectly) as cichlasoma boliviensis, the Bolivia cichlid is not commonly seen in the hobby. A good candidate for a community of medium sized cichlids, assuming aggression problems can be overcome.