Until recently, the genus Saxatilia was classified under the large, catch-all genus Crenicichla. Saxatilia encompasses the pike cichlids formerly known as the Crenicichla saxatilis species complex. The genus is quite species-rich; 38 scientific names are associated with it, though only 23 are currently widely accepted. Among the species that have recently been relegated to the synonym list are forms well-known in the aquarium hobby, such as S. cardiostigma (currently considered a synonym of S. alta) and S. edithae (currently regarded as a synonym of S. lepidota). Many of the species look remarkably similar and are difficult even for specialists to distinguish. This generally stands in the way of widespread popularity among aquarists, especially since pike cichlids have few enthusiasts anyway due to their sometimes rather rough and always somewhat predatory behavior.
As a result, some of the species that have been described for quite some time have remained virtually unknown in the aquarium hobby. Among them is S. britskii, which was described in 1982 from a small stream that is a tributary of the Rio Tiete in the Brazilian state of São Paulo. As far as we have been able to determine, there is not a single report on keeping this species in the aquarium literature, nor is there any aquarium photograph of it. We have now been able to import Saxatilia from the state of São Paulo, which, according to the exporter, are S. britskii. We have found no evidence to the contrary and are therefore offering the specimens under this name.
Saxatilia britskii is a very typical representative of its genus. In terms of coloration, it corresponds to what one generally expects: a large shoulder spot, a pattern of vertical light bands, a dark longitudinal stripe, and a caudal base spot. Below the eye is a comma-shaped line; the band behind the eye is broad and clearly defined, ending in a vertical line along the gill cover. In his original description, Kullander emphasizes that S. britskii differs from S. lepidota from Paraguay primarily in terms of coloration.
With a maximum length of 15 cm, S. britskii is one of the medium-sized members of the pike cichlids; in the wild, they usually remain significantly smaller (around 10 cm). As for care and breeding, we can only assume that everything proceeds in the typical Saxatilia manner. These fish are not sensitive to water hardness or pH; any tap water is suitable, provided it is not too acidic (pH should not sink below 6). The water temperature can range from 18 to 26°C and should not remain constant throughout the year. Saxatilia are undemanding eaters that are easy to feed with coarse frozen and live food, as well as pellets and cichlid sticks. They also regard small fish as food. In sufficiently large aquariums (150 cm or larger), the potential for aggression is limited, but should never be underestimated, especially since there appear to be significant individual differences in this regard. Pairs find themselves best from a group of juveniles raised together. As far as is known, all Saxatilia are cave breeders that raise their young in a biparental family.
For our customers: these fish are listed under code 669082 on our stock list. Please note that we supply exclusively to wholesale customers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
