Pike Characin (Boulengerella species) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 150 gallons and 75-82°F. A slim, fast surface hunter that looks like a small gar. It can leap, bolts when startled and damages itself easily, so it needs a long, covered tank and calm handling. Many wild-type fish start on live foods and need patience to switch.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Boulengerella species |
|---|---|
| Family | Ctenoluciidae |
| Origin | Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America |
| Adult size | 12-20 in |
| Minimum tank | 150 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Predatory, eats small fish |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a pair in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Top |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: live or frozen fish, shrimp, large insects |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Use a long tank with a heavy, tight lid.
- Do not house with fish small enough to swallow.
- Keep lighting dim and avoid sudden movement near the glass.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi