Species profile
Freshwater Needlefish
Xenentodon cancila
Aggressive
Hard care
500 L minimum aquarium
25–40 cm adult size
Top
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Tank length and surface footprint are critical. Handle carefully because the elongated jaws are vulnerable to impact injury.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.8
GH
4–18 dGH
KH
2–10 dKH
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Top
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3
Large surface predator with a long fragile jaw. Small fish are prey; startled fish can injure themselves against covers or glass.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
8–12 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
500 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Xenentodon cancila
Alternative names
Freshwater Garfish, Needle Gar
Native range
South and Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent through mainland Southeast Asia.
Natural habitat
Rivers, canals, ponds and slow pools, often near surface cover; requires a large unobstructed surface area.
Diet & feeding
Predatory diet of insects, crustaceans and fish. Train onto dead/frozen meaty foods rather than relying on feeder fish.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult females are generally deeper-bodied; sexing is easier in mature fish and breeding condition.
Breeding
Oviparous. Adhesive eggs bear filamentous tendrils and attach to vegetation or other submerged surfaces.