Needlefish (Xenentodon cancila)

From The Aquarium Wiki

Contents 1 Alternative names 2 Sexing 3 Tank compatibility 4 Diet 5 Feeding regime 6 Environment Specifics 7 Behaviour 8 Identification 9 Pictures 10 External links

Alternative names

Needlefish, Long-Nose Gar, Freshwater Garfish, Needle-Nose Gar

Sexing

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

An aggressive hunter, must only be kept with other aggressive fish of similar size, preferably larger, but peaceful and robust, bottom dwellers only.

Diet

Prefers live food, fish or crustaceans. Can be a fussy eater, and can bite hands that are feeding it!

Feeding regime

Once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

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

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

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

External links

• Fishbase (Mirrors: )

• Seriously Fish
• Live Aquaria
• Breeding Needlenose Gars