[1] The smallest species of Crenicichla are no larger than 6–14 cm (2.4–5.5 in)[2] and may be referred to as "dwarf cichlids" for the aquarium hobby – though their aggressive and territorial habits make them unsuitable for novice keepers.

The genus Crenicichla is native to freshwater in tropical and subtropical South America east of the Andes, ranging from Trinidad and the Guiana Shield (including Orinoco), through the Amazon and Río de la Plata Basins, south as far as Río Negro in Argentina.

[5][6] They are found in a wide range of habitats, including rivers, streams, pools and lakes; some species are rheophilic.

[5][6] The vast majority of pike cichlids are predatory and feed on fish, insects, and other small animals.

An exception is C. tapii, which is similar in general appearance to other pike cichlids, but unusual for being gregarious and feeding on periphyton.