Pike characin (Acestrorhynchus microlepis)

Scientific name: Acestrorhynchus microlepis Jardine, 1841

The Pike characin (Acestrorhynchus microlepis) is a freshwater fish of the family Acestrorhynchidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 18–28°C (64–82°F). Native range: South America, Amazon and Orinoco River basins and rivers of Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

Pike characin care at a glance

Temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F)

Biology

Dorsal spines: 2; Dorsal soft rays: 8-10; Anal spines: 3 - 5; Anal soft rays: 22 - 30. Possesses a minute spot behind the opercle; lateral line scales 91-131; small eye 17.9-34.1% head length; snout length 32.5-50.0% head length.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Acestrorhynchus microlepis
Family: Acestrorhynchidae (Smallscale pike characins)
Order: Characiformes (Characins)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 26.0
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 5.5 - 6.5 benthopelagic
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: South America: Amazon and Orinoco River basins and rivers of Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Aquarium: commercial