Life Span

How long a healthy fish can generally live in captivity given proper care and water conditions.

Tips for a long life

 * Feed high protein food during its first year as a young animal requires lots of essential minerals during its initial growing period.


 * Feed good quality food with plenty of on-going variation. This ensures it gets all its minerals and amino acids.


 * Ensure it is kept in water with no ammonia or nitrite. Keep nitrate levels low.


 * Ensure it is kept within appropriate water parameters for its species. i.e. temperature, pH, GH, salt levels.


 * Consider adding bogwood or other similar organic material to the tank. This has shown to promote healthier animals.


 * Ensure low stress. A constantly alarmed animal has a short life. Provide a covered backdrop to the tank, provide hiding places. Look out for bullying from other co-inhabitors.


 * Look out for wounds on the animal. These maybe caused by ornaments or other animals.