Xenentodon Canciloides

Datasheet

General Description

Xenentodon canciloides, also known as freshwater garfish, is a species rarely seen in the ornamental trade, closely related to the more common X. cancila. Belonging to the Belonidae family, these "needlefish" are distinguishable by their slender jaws, small body size that does not exceed 30 cm, and a cylindrical body shape. They are predators that mainly feed on smaller fishes and insects in the wild and are challenging to wean onto dead alternatives in captivity.

Aquarium Setup

X. canciloides thrives in aquariums with a minimum size of 650 litres, preferably with surface cover from floating vegetation, overhanging plants, and emergent branches. The tank should have a sandy substrate, leaf litter, driftwood branches, and can be decorated with plant species like Microsorum or Anubias. Proper lighting tailored to the tank's flora is beneficial, and a tightly-fitting cover is necessary to prevent jumping behavior. Efficient filtration, like external canister filters, is crucial due to the species' waste production, and regular water changes of 30-50% are recommended to maintain water quality.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful nature towards larger tankmates, X. canciloides can exist in community setups if carefully selected. They are not aggressive towards conspecifics, and juveniles often exhibit a schooling instinct. Maintaining them in groups of four or more is advisable due to their social behavior and well-being in numbers.

Feeding and Diet

As obligate predators, X. canciloides primarily feed on smaller fishes and insects. Weaning them onto dead food options can be tricky, but smaller specimens can be offered bloodworms, chopped prawns, and live river shrimp. Adults can be fed strips of fish flesh, whole prawns, mussels, and larger earthworms. It is essential not to overfeed, avoiding mammalian or avian meat like beef heart to prevent health issues.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available on the reproduction of X. canciloides. Sexually mature males may develop a pronounced dorsal "hump" near the head, displaying sexual dimorphism. However, specific details about their breeding habits remain unrecorded.

Habitat and Distribution

These needlefish are typically found in slow-moving or still sections of streams, rivers, and marshy lowland habitats. Native to the Greater Sunda Islands, including Borneo and Sumatra, as well as Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, their habitat ranges from freshwater systems to man-made canals and irrigation channels.