Xenentodon cancila (Silver needle fish)

The Xenentodon Cancila fish is a freshwater fish from Asia, in particular rivers and lakes from China, Indonesia, Cambodia and Vietnam. It belongs to the Belontiidae family and is also known as a pointed beaked catfish.

The Xenentodon Cancila is a medium -sized fish, generally measuring between 10 and 15 centimeters in length, although some individuals can reach 20 centimeters. It has an elongated and slender shape, with a flat and laterally compressed body. Its head is wide and flat, with a pointed muzzle and large and round eyes. Its fins are long and fine, with a indoor caudal fin.

The Xenentodon Cancila has a variable coloring depending on the individual and their environment. The basic color is generally dark gray to black, with white, yellow or orange spots on the body and fins. These spots can be arranged randomly or form distinctive patterns. Fish also has a black band that extends from the eye to the dorsal fin.

The Xenentodon Cancila is a gregarious and peaceful fish that lives in groups in the shallow and well oxygenated waters of rivers and lakes. It feeds mainly on small crustaceans and insects which he hunts following the currents. The pointed beak catfish is a night and active animal, which moves by swimming on the surface of the water.

In aquarium, the Xenentodon Cancila is a fish appreciated for its beauty and its sociable personality. It is easy to maintain under adequate conditions and can adapt to a variety of water parameters. However, it needs a sufficient space to swim and a filter to maintain clean and well oxygenated water. Pointed beak catfish is also sensitive to diseases and parasites, so it is important to regularly monitor your health.

Non visible.

Never observed in aquarium