Needlefish (Xenentodon cancila)
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Needlefish
Xenentodon cancila
284 Litres (75 US G.)
35.1-39.9cm (13.8-15.7 ")
7.0 - 7.5
22 -28 °C (71.6-82.4°F)
15-20 °d
1:1 M:F
3-5 years
Family
Belonidae
Contents
Additional names
- Needlefish, Long-Nose Gar, Freshwater Garfish, Needle-Nose Gar
Additional scientific names
- Esox cancila, Belone graii, Esox indica, Esox hindostanicus, Belone cancila, Xenenthodon cancila
Origin[edit | edit source]
- Asia: Sri Lanka and India eastward to the Mekong.
Sexing[edit | edit source]
- It is possible, though highly unlikely and rare, to breed and raise Needle Nose Gars in captivity. Visually sexing these fish, however, is difficult.
Tank compatibility[edit | edit source]
- A semi-aggressive hunter, must only be kept with other semi-aggressive fish, peaceful, or aggressive of similar size, preferably larger, but peaceful and robust, bottom dwellers only.
Diet[edit | edit source]
- Prefers live food, fish or crustaceans. Can be a fussy eater, and can bite hands that are feeding it!
Feeding regime[edit | edit source]
- Once or twice a day.
Environment specifics[edit | edit source]
- Needs a spacious, long tank with minimal décor, so as not to injure itself if frightened. Needs a secure, heavy, tight fitting lid as this fish can jump.
Behaviour[edit | edit source]
- It is an aggressive fish with sharp teeth. It will bite the hand that feeds it, and it will hurt! This fish can turn with great speed and is known for leaping from the water.
Identification[edit | edit source]
- It has a very elongated, slender, silvery body with a dark edged silver band running horizontally down its side. It has a very slender, long mouth lined with razor-sharp teeth.
Pictures[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
- Fishbase (Mirrors: )