Pikehead

Although the pikehead belongs to the same family as the gouramis (Osphronemidae), it looks very different from them: with its long, slender body, pointed head and dorsal fin set close to the tail, it resembles a pike. It grows to 15–18 cm in the aquarium. It waits motionless just below the surface and seizes an approaching fish in an instant with its forward-extending mouth. The male carries the eggs in his mouth. It lives in the soft, acidic water of peat swamps; because of its feeding and water requirements, it is only suitable for experienced hobbyists.

• At least 200 liters, a long aquarium with a large surface area.
• 25–27°C, pH 4.5–6.5, very soft water; a setting darkened with dried leaves and roots.
• Floating plants and branches reaching the surface; dim light.
• It jumps when startled; a tight lid is essential.

Carnivorous and accepts almost only live food: small fish, large live insects and mosquito larvae. Getting it used to frozen food is very difficult. Because feeder fish can carry disease, they must be obtained from quarantined sources.

It is calm toward fish larger than itself but hunts every fish and shrimp that fits in its mouth. Fast, boisterous tankmates stress it.

Good companions: calm fish close to its own size that are suited to peat water; mostly a species tank.

Avoid: small fish and shrimp, fast and greedy species, fin nippers.