Description
Xenentodon cancila
Temp: 76-82° F
KH 8-15
pH 6.8-7.4
Max. Size: 1′ 3″ in the wild typically 5-7″ in home aquaria
Native to: Asia
The Needle Nose Gar originates from the rivers, slack waters and ponds of Asia. They are a very long and slender fish that and mostly silver in color. Because of their body shape, they are able to produce very quick bursts of speed when in pursuit of prey. They have a very slender mouth that is filled with numerous small razor-like teeth.
Offer the Needle Nose Gar a gravel substrate and plenty of rock for structure. There should be plenty of open swimming areas. A surface predator, the Needle Nose Gar should only be housed with other more aggressive predacious fish of similar size. A well-fitted canopy is a must for this species, as they can generate great speeds and could jump out of the aquarium.
The Needle Nose Gar is a carnivore and should be fed a variety of live foods such as small fish and crustaceans.