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Pikehead
Luciocephalus pulcher
Animalia›Chordata›Perciformes›Osphronemidae
The Pikehead is a Southeast Asian predatory fish known for its elongated body and pike-like appearance, making it a fascinating addition to specialized aquariums. This species is highly aggressive and territorial, requiring careful tank management and appropriate tank mates. They are ambush predators that spend much of their time near the surface waiting for prey.
Where it's from
Native to the Banka island, Baram, Batang Hari, Batang Kerang and 25 other river basins
Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore
At a glance
- Size
- 8 in
- 20 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal
- 151 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F
- 24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Care
Diet
Pikeheads are obligate carnivores requiring live prey such as small fish, shrimp, and aquatic insects. Feed appropriately sized prey 2-3 times weekly, ensuring the food item is no larger than half the fish's body size. They may refuse frozen foods and require live feeding for optimal health.
Behavior
Pikeheads are solitary, ambush predators that remain relatively motionless near the water surface, striking at passing prey with lightning speed. They are highly territorial and aggressive toward other fish, particularly conspecifics. They are primarily nocturnal and may hide during daylight hours.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is extremely rare and poorly documented. Sexual dimorphism is not well established, and specific breeding conditions are unknown. Attempting to breed this species requires expert knowledge and specialized conditions.
Tank mates
See all 4Plant provides cover without being consumed; does not interact with fish
Hardy plant that provides shelter and surface coverage for ambush hunting
Inert decoration that provides visual interest without interaction
Dense vegetation provides hunting cover and tank structure
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Common diseases 4Ichthyophthirius (Ich), Bacterial Infection, Parasitic Infection, Mouth Rot
Ichthyophthirius (Ich)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against surfaces
Raise temperature to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform water changes, use aquarium salt or commercial ich treatment; quarantine if possible
Bacterial Infection
Fin rot, body sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, behavioral changes
Improve water quality, perform frequent water changes, use antibiotic medications if severe; isolate affected fish
Parasitic Infection
Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss, clamped fins, lethargy
Use antiparasitic medications, perform water changes, improve tank conditions; quarantine and treat separately if possible
Mouth Rot
Discoloration around mouth, difficulty feeding, tissue deterioration around jaw area
Improve water quality, perform frequent water changes, use antibiotic treatment; ensure proper nutrition with live prey
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Tedesco et al. 2017 (CC0).
At a glance
- Size
- 8 in20 cm
- Min tank
- 40 gal151 L
- Temp
- 75–82°F24–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.0
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Swims
- Top
- Lifespan
- 5-8 yrs
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
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