More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 650 litres / 171.71 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 35.0cm / 13.78inches |
| Temperature | 18°C / 64.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
General Description
The Xenentodon Cancila, commonly known as the Freshwater Needlefish, is a member of the Belonidae family and is often mistaken for a freshwater garfish due to its appearance. Belonging to the Beloniformes order, this species can grow up to 35.0cm in length and is characterized by its cylindrical body, large jaws with teeth, and specific dorsal and anal fin features.
Aquarium Setup
The Freshwater Needlefish is best suited for a tank setup that includes floating or overhanging vegetation to provide surface cover. Decorate the tank with sandy substrate, leaf litter, large driftwood branches, twisted roots, and plants like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, or Anubias spp. Lighting should be adjusted based on the plant species present, and adding emergent branches in deeper tanks can be visually appealing. Utilize efficient filtration systems and perform weekly water changes to maintain water quality.
Behaviour
The Freshwater Needlefish is surprisingly peaceful with larger tankmates but can be a poor competitor, necessitating careful selection of community companions. They do not exhibit aggression towards their own species and tend to thrive in groups of four or more, with juveniles displaying a schooling instinct. Additionally, they may jump when startled, highlighting the importance of a secure tank cover.
Feeding and Diet
As an obligate predator, the Freshwater Needlefish primarily feeds on smaller fishes and insects in the wild, making it challenging to transition onto dead food alternatives in captivity. Offer smaller specimens bloodworms, earthworms, prawns, or shrimp, while adults can be fed fish flesh, mussels, live river shrimp, earthworms, and insects. Avoid overfeeding and refrain from using mammalian or avian meat in their diet to prevent health issues.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
In the wild, the Freshwater Needlefish spawns between May and September, with captive reproduction being achievable under specific conditions. Females deposit small numbers of eggs daily in areas with strong water flow, attaching them to submerged vegetation with adhesive filaments. Males exhibit distinct black edges on their dorsal and anal fins, along with a dorsal hump and red markings on the head during mating behavior.
Habitat and Distribution
These needlefishes prefer slow-moving to still sections of streams, rivers, marshes, and temporary floodplains in regions across Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand. They have also been introduced to Hawaii, where feral populations have been established, showcasing their adaptability to varied habitats.