Crenicichla tingui is a species of freshwater cichlid fish in the genus Crenicichla (commonly known as pike cichlids), native to South America. It was first described by Sven O. Kullander and Carlos A. S. de Lucena in 2006.
Taxonomy and Etymology
The genus name Crenicichla derives from Latin crenulatus ("cut" or "clipped") and Greek kichle ("wrasse"). The specific epithet tingui is a Tupi word used in southern Brazil to designate an origin or inhabitant of the State of Paraná.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is found in freshwater environments in Brazil, specifically in the Atlantic coastal rivers of southeastern Brazil. It inhabits benthopelagic zones in tropical freshwater systems.
Description
Crenicichla tingui reaches a maximum length of 19.5 cm (7.7 in) standard length. It belongs to the Crenicichla lacustris group. Key identifying features include:
- A continuous lateral band extending from the orbit to the caudal fin base.
- A short and narrow suborbital stripe, occasionally reduced to a small spot at the orbital margin.
- Absence of spots on the side of the head.
- Absence of narrow vertical stripes (a trait shared only with Crenicichla iguassuensis within its group).
- It is distinguished from C. iguassuensis by having a continuous (rather than subdivided) lateral band and a shorter, narrower suborbital stripe.
- Dorsal fin spines: 21–22; dorsal soft rays: 12–14; anal soft rays: 8–10.
Ecology and Behavior
Crenicichla tingui is a predatory species that feeds on other fish. Body and fin spots are fewer and slightly lighter in females than in males of corresponding size.
Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed Crenicichla tingui as Least Concern (LC) as of November 7, 2018. It is not evaluated under CITES and is considered harmless to humans.
