Freshwater garfish - Xenentodon cancila
Scientific name: Xenentodon cancila
Common name: Freshwater garfish
Family: Belonidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 36 - 43 cm (14.17 - 16.93 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.9 - 7.6
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 24°N (178.57 - 428.57ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South Asia
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller
Usual place in the tank: Top levels
Food and feeding
Only offer live foods with this fish, it will not accept prepared foods. Ghost shrimp, crickets and fry will be accepted but be wary when feeding as these fish have very sharp teeth that can inflict cuts to the keeper.
Origin
Asia; Freshwater garfish are to be found in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Burma.
Sexing
The dorsal and anal fins on some males will have a black edging.
Breeding
Freshwater garfish will spawn readily in the aquarium but raising the fry is the problem. As the parents are cannibalistic, the will often eat the fry before they can be moved.
Lifespan
The expected lifespan for Xenentodon cancila is 3-5 years.
Short description
Keep Xenentodon cancila in small groups of at least 3 or more specimens. The minimum size tank should be 75 gallons decorated with fine gravel for the substrate and rocks scattered about. Always use a tight fitting lid as they are very good jumpers.
Pictures
Some pictures were bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk and other were provided by Joe.
