Description
The African Pike, or Hepsetus odoe, is an intriguing predatory freshwatr fish from Central and West Africa, primariliy in Nigeria and Cameroon. Its name comes from its long, slender, and elongates body which resembles a pike. Its sharp teeth, slim and pointed snout, and its long dorsal fin make this fish look striking. It's exceptional predatory behavior makes this species especially interesting, as its impressive speed makes them particularly fascinating when on the prowl for prey.
This species is considered semi-aggressive, and may exhibit overall more aggressive behavior during breeding or when placed in smaller tanks. It's crucial to select tankmates that are similar or larger in size than the pike, and the species also needs to be quite robust and assertive in order to hold their own. Larger barbs, some larger catfish, other larger predatory fish, and even robust and assertive species of cichlids could work, but only in optimal conditions.