Aquaria
Northern River Garfish

Northern River Garfish

NameNorthern River Garfish
Scientific NameStrongylura strongylura
Common NamesNorthern River Garfish, Freshwater Garfish, Spottail Needlefish, Needlefish
FamilyBelonidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Southeast Asia, Oceania
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)100
Max Size (Inches)20
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarger Gouramis, Larger Rainbowfish, Larger Barbs, Peaceful Cichlids (e.g., Severums), Datz, Arowana

Description

The Northern River Garfish is a long, slender, surface-dwelling predatory fish characterized by its elongated, needle-like jaws. It primarily feeds on smaller fish and insects. While generally peaceful towards tankmates too large to be eaten, its predatory nature requires careful selection of compatible species.

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