Pike – Esox Lucius 12-14″ (30-35cm)

Pike – Esox Lucius

Description: Pike are the apex predator in the coldwater fish world. They are exceptional hunters possessing immense speed and a toothy armory. That said, they are also an incredibly delicate fish and are not for the faint hearted. Pike are most often olive green, shading from yellow to white along the belly. The flank is marked with short, light bar-like spots and a few to many dark spots on the fins. Sometimes, the fins are reddish. Younger pike have yellow stripes along a green body; later, the stripes divide into light spots and the body turns from green to olive green.

Maximum Size: 55″maximum, more likely 25-30″ in a very large pond.

Environment: Pike require a specialised pond. A large area and suitable filtration and oxygenation. They are highly predatory. They will require live foods to be fed. They will eat fish upto large sizes as well as birds, frogs, newts and rats. Good water parameters are a must.

Water Conditions: Pike require a pH range of 7-8.5, Ammonia and Nitrite to be virtually 0ppm and dissolved oxygen saturation to remain above 8ppm.

As with any pet, please fully research for yourself to ensure that you can accommodate a fish of this type in your home.