LONGTOM FRESHWATER 30+ cm

Freshwater Longtom (Strongylura krefftii), needlefish is native to northern Australia. It has a prehistoric, gar-like look. Elongate, slender body with a long, beak-like snout filled with sharp needle-like teeth. Coloration is typically silvery to olive-green, and fins are translucent to yellowish or slightly dusky. It often shelters under overhanging vegetation, submerged roots, or structure, especially during the day. A nocturnal ambush hunter that feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and insects. It strikes from cover. It is a poor competitor for food, so ensure all tank mates can feed effectively (often at the surface or with targeted feeding).

TANK: Needs a large tank (minimum ~800 liters / 200+ gallons recommended, with a long footprint for swimming space) that is well-covered with a tight lid.

DECORE: Use minimal hardscaping (smooth river stones, cave-like driftwood) on a thin sandy substrate to reduce injury risk.

AQUARIUM: Generally peaceful toward fish too large to eat, but it will consume smaller tankmates. It can be skittish or nervous when first introduced. Once settled, it becomes more confident. A tight-fitting lid is essential as it is a strong jumper. It needs plenty of open swimming space and hiding spots. Not overly aggressive toward similar-sized compatible fish.

TANK MATE: Large, robust, semi-aggressive to peaceful species that grow too big to be eaten.

Barramundi, Australian lungfish, Freshwater stingrays, Jade perch, Oscar Cichlid and Silver perch. Sometime with caution – Archerfish and Sprangle perch.

NTK: This is an advanced/“monster” fish setup best suited for experienced keepers with very large aquariums.

NTK – Need To Know