African Pike
- Aquarium size — from 500 L
- Temperature — 25–28°C
- pH — 6.0–7.5
- Water hardness — soft to medium (8–18 dGH)
- Substrate — any
- Lighting — moderate
- Brackish water — no
- Water movement — weak
- Adult size — up to 50–70 cm
- Diet — live and frozen meaty foods
- Temperament — aggressive predator
- Best kept alone or with similar‑sized fish
Overview
The African Pike (Hepsetus odoe) is a long, torpedo‑shaped predator from African rivers. In the aquarium it is known for its speed, powerful strikes and impressive size. Despite the common name, it is not a true pike but a characiform fish from the family Hepsetidae.
This species is kept almost exclusively by experienced aquarists who can provide a very large tank, strong filtration and a carefully chosen community of robust tankmates. Any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will eventually be eaten.
Habitat
African Pike inhabits slow to moderately flowing rivers, lakes, backwaters and floodplains across much of tropical Africa. It prefers warm, slightly acidic to neutral waters with plenty of submerged wood, aquatic plants and overhanging vegetation that provide cover for ambush hunting.
During high water seasons the fish follow migrating prey into flooded forests and grassy margins. When water levels drop they return to deeper channels, staying near structure where currents are weaker.
Description
African Pike have an elongated, streamlined body, pointed snout and large mouth filled with sharp conical teeth. The colour is generally silvery to olive‑brown with darker mottling along the flanks, which helps camouflage the fish among roots and vegetation.
In nature they can reach up to 70 cm in length, although most aquarium specimens stay somewhat smaller. The dorsal and anal fins are set far back, providing explosive bursts of speed when attacking prey.
Feeding
In the wild African Pike feed mainly on smaller fish and occasionally on crustaceans and other aquatic animals. In captivity they should receive a diet based on high‑quality meaty foods: pieces of fish and shrimp, earthworms, krill, large insect larvae and suitable frozen foods.
Feeder fish should be avoided unless you are absolutely sure they are healthy and quarantined, as they can introduce parasites and disease. Overfeeding quickly leads to water quality problems, so feed moderate portions and maintain regular water changes.
Care and aquarium setup
A single adult African Pike needs at least a 500‑liter aquarium, and larger is strongly recommended. The tank should be long, with a tight‑fitting lid, as this species can jump when startled. Provide open swimming space in the middle and upper levels, with driftwood, roots and hardy plants along the sides for cover.
Filtration must be powerful, with stable temperature and clean, well‑oxygenated water. Strong currents are not necessary, but a gentle flow that prevents dead spots is beneficial.
Behavior and compatibility
African Pike are solitary ambush predators. They can co‑exist with other large, fast and robust fish that are too big to swallow, but small or slow tankmates will be viewed as food. Territorial aggression may occur, especially in cramped tanks.
Do not keep them with delicate species or fish that stress easily. Observe interactions carefully, particularly during feeding, to ensure that all fish receive food and no one is constantly chased or injured.