How to Care for a Needle Nose Fish

The needle nose fish, or needlefish, found in pet shops are often called gars. These Asian expatriates bear that misnomer because of a few characteristics they share with true gars. True gars inhabit lakes and rivers throughout the eastern and southern United States and parts of southern Canada.

Things You'll Need

  • Covered fish tank, 50 gallons or larger
  • Aquarium salt (optional)
  • Aquarium gravel and plants
  • Aquarium heater
  • Aquarium filter
  • Thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Add aquarium gravel and plants to the aquarium. Needlefish like shaded areas. Make sure you use plants that thrive in warm water.

    • 2

      Fill the tank with clean water that is between 78 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Install the aquarium heater. Attach it to the side of the aquarium using suction cups pressed flat against the side of the tank. Make sure the heater will be fully submerged, away from plants and above the floor of the tank. Plug the heater into a wall socket or surge suppressor, making sure the cord hangs below the level of the outlet.

    • 4

      Add a thermometer. It can be installed either inside or outside the tank. Wipe off the surface of the thermometer. If using it inside the tank, place it away from the filter, and in easy view. Follow the instructions that come with your thermometer regarding how to use it.

    • 5

      Add a filter. You can use a mechanical (removes floating waste), biological (promotes growth of good bacteria while eliminating the bad) or chemical (removes waste) filter to your tank.

    • 6

      Add needlefish. Because they travel in schools, buying three or more is recommended.

    • 7

      Feed needlefish live fish, crickets, tadpoles, small frogs, mealworms or shrimp. Although it's possible to get them to eat dead prey, they prefer live food.

    • 8

      Place the cover on the tank.