Crenicichla zebrina (Zebra pike cichlid) is a species of pike cichlid native to South America. It inhabits clear to moderately turbid streams and small rivers with moderate current, often among submerged rocks, roots, and leaf litter where it can shelter and ambush prey. Crenicichla zebrina (Zebra pike cichlid) depositphotos.com Behavior and temperament: C. zebrina is a predatory, territorial fish. Adults are solitary or found in loose pairs, defending small territories, especially during breeding. They are aggressive toward smaller fish and conspecifics when space is limited; juveniles show more schooling tendencies until they mature. They exhibit typical pike-cichlid body shape—elongated and laterally compressed—adapted for quick lunges. Feeding: Carnivorous ambush predator. Diet in the wild includes small fish, aquatic insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. In an aquarium, they accept live and frozen foods such as small feeder fish, shrimp, silversides, bloodworms, and ...