Moonies are magnificent brackish water fish. In pure fresh water they should be kept only temporarily, if possible, because they are very sensitive there. If it has to be freshwater, then the pH value must not drop below 7 and the nitrate value must not rise above 50 mg/l, nitrite is harmful even in very small amounts. In brackish or seawater (from 10-15 g salt/liter), however, they are robust animals. The fish we can offer right now are from Indonesia and were caught near Java.
Monodactylus argenteus should be kept in aquariums as large as possible, because they grow to a length of 15-20 cm and are very eager to swim. Juvenile specimens can be very incompatible with conspecifics, but this varies from individual to individual and there are also very compatible animals. It is best to keep them in a group of 10-12 (or more) so that any aggression is dispersed. A strong current and a good oxygen supply are further prerequisites to enjoy the animals for many years. The sexes cannot be distinguished externally. The fish spawn at night. They are free spawners without brood care.
The temperature should be between 24 and 28°C. They eat all usual dry, frozen and live food, if it fits into their mouth. Since these fish have a high metabolism, feeding several times a day in small portions is recommended.
For our customers: the fish have code 436202 on our stocklist. Please note that we only supply wholesale.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
