Gulf saratoga - Scleropages jardinii

Scientific name: Scleropages jardinii

Common name: Gulf saratoga

Family: Osteoglossidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 90 - 100 cm (35.43 - 39.37 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.4 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 13°N (89.29 - 232.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 26 °C (71.6 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Oceania

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Food and feeding

When first introduced to the tank, Gulf saratogas may refuse pellets but gradually they will start to accept them. Feeder fish, beef heart, crayfish and shrimps should be offered initially, when they are settled they should accept all meaty foods and pellets offered.

Origin

Asia and Oceania; Gulf saratogas are found in Australia and New Guinea.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between the sexes.

Breeding

Getting these to breed in the aquarium can be very difficult. .This is mainly due to the size of tank required to be successful. Once the fish have spawned, the female will gather the eggs and mouth brood them for 4-5 weeks. During the last week of the brooding, she will release the fry for short intervals but gather them back up at any sign of danger.

Lifespan

The expected life span of Scleropages jardinii is 20 years.

Short description

Large regular water changes are required. Filtration must be high as these are high waste producers. Scleropages jardinii will need large areas of open swimming spaces but add some plants to provide cover if required. Never keep these with fish small enough to eat. Also known as Australian pearl arowana, or Australian bonytongue.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.