Species profile
Dwarf Pike Cichlid
Wallaciia compressiceps
Aggressive
Hard care
180 L minimum aquarium
7–10 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Accepted genus updated from Crenicichla to Wallaciia. Do not let the word 'dwarf' imply community-safe behaviour.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–29 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
1–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.2
Small but extremely assertive pike cichlid. Pairs can be violent toward each other and tankmates; dense hardscape and a realistic divider/separation plan are essential.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
6–8 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
180 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Wallaciia compressiceps
Alternative names
Crenicichla compressiceps, Compressiceps Dwarf Pike Cichlid
Native range
Lower Tocantins River drainage, Amazon basin, Brazil.
Natural habitat
Rocky fast-flowing river habitats with crevices, clean water and high oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Predatory invertebrate/fish feeder; use frozen/live invertebrates and high-quality carnivore foods, avoiding routine feeder fish.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females tend to show stronger dorsal-fin ocelli and sex-specific colour pattern; mature males become larger and more robust.
Breeding
Cave/substrate spawner. A pair guards eggs and fry aggressively; partner aggression can remain a serious management issue.