Species profile
Pike Livebearer
Belonesox belizanus
Aggressive
Hard care
250 L minimum aquarium
10–20 cm adult size
Top mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A specialist predatory livebearer, not a standard community fish. Small fish and shrimp are prey and a secure lid is mandatory.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–29 °C
pH
7–8.2
GH
10–30 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.5
Predatory rather than conventionally territorial. Conspecifics can also be aggressive/cannibalistic, so careful stocking, feeding and space are required.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
3–5 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Belonesox belizanus
Alternative names
Pike Livebearer, Pike Topminnow
Native range
Atlantic-slope waters from southern Mexico through Central America.
Natural habitat
Weedy canals, lagoons and slow rivers, sometimes entering brackish water. Use a long, densely planted tank with open hunting lanes and a very secure cover.
Diet & feeding
Highly predatory piscivore. Captive diets should be transitioned to nutritious whole invertebrate/frozen foods and suitable carnivore preparations where possible; avoid routine use of unscreened feeder fish.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are smaller and possess a gonopodium; females grow substantially larger and are heavier-bodied.
Breeding
Livebearer. Females produce live young; newborn fry are large but can be eaten immediately by adults. Dense cover or separate rearing is required.