Keeltail Needlefish
NameKeeltail Needlefish
Scientific NamePlatybelone argalus
Common NamesKeeltail Needlefish, Keel-tailed Needlefish, Silver Needlefish
FamilyBelonidae
OriginAtlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Tropical and Subtropical Waters Worldwide
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)250
Max Size (Inches)20
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther large needlefish species, Large jacks, Snappers, Other large, fast-moving, non-aggressive marine fish
Description
The Keeltail Needlefish is a long, slender, silvery marine fish known for its distinctive elongated, needle-like jaws. It is a surface-dwelling predator found in tropical and subtropical oceans, primarily feeding on smaller fish. Due to its large size, specialized diet, and need for open swimming space, it is a challenging species to maintain in a home aquarium.
