How to Set Up a Needlefish Tank

Needlefish are elongated, thin freshwater fish. They have long, pointed mouths that house many sharp teeth. Although these fish look dangerous, they are actually relatively peaceful schooling fish. Needlefish can be nervous in a home aquarium and may cause themselves harm by jumping against the sides of the aquarium. These fish also grow to be quite large and require lots of space. With these characteristics, it is important to set up the proper aquarium environment for your needlefish.

Things You'll Need

  • 50-gallon or larger aquarium
  • Fine aquarium gravel
  • Aquarium plants
  • Aquarium decorations
  • Filtration system
  • Water testing kit
  • Water additives
  • Thermometer
  • Aquarium cover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill the bottom of a 50-gallon or larger aquarium with a shallow layer of fine aquarium gravel. Add several aquarium plants, either real or fake, as well as some aquarium decorations, such as logs or caves. The needlefish will use the plants and decorations as hiding places whenever they get nervous.

    • 2

      Install a filtration system in the aquarium. Because needlefish most often eat live foods, the water in the aquarium can quickly become dirty. A filtration system will help keep the water clean.

    • 3

      Measure the pH levels of the water in the aquarium with a water testing kit. Needlefish need a pH level between 6.2 and 7.5. Use water additives to raise or lower the pH levels.

    • 4

      Install a thermometer in the aquarium and monitor the temperature. Needlefish need a water temperature between 71 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 5

      Place a cover on the aquarium. Needlefish may sometimes feel nervous, and when they do, they often jump toward the sides or top of the aquarium. If there is no cover on the aquarium, the fish can jump out of the aquarium and die. The cover should fit tightly so the needlefish are unable to knock it off.