Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

They are active, schooling fish that are generally peaceful towards robust species. Their fast movements can sometimes stress out slower tank mates. They may occasionally nip fins if kept in groups that are too small.

Diet

Omnivore

Silver Moonies are omnivorous and require a varied diet of plant and meaty foods. In the wild, they feed on insects and plant matter in estuaries. In captivity, they eagerly accept flakes, frozen foods, and spirulina.

Sex ratio

Group

There are no easily distinguishable external differences between males and females. Maintaining a specific sex ratio is generally not necessary when keeping them. Keeping them in a sufficiently large group is most important.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Juveniles should be fed multiple small meals a day for rapid growth. Adults can be fed two to three times daily. Consistent feeding helps prevent water quality deterioration from uneaten food.

Bioload

The Silver Moony produces a significant bioload due to its voracious appetite. These large fish require robust filtration systems to maintain excellent water quality. Frequent water changes are necessary to handle their high metabolic waste.

Flow

Stagnant

These active swimmers thrive in environments with moderate to strong water flow. The robust water movement provides essential exercise and oxygenates the water. Powerheads can be used to create the necessary current.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding Silver Moonies in a home aquarium is extremely rare and challenging. In the wild, they migrate from brackish waters to the open ocean to spawn. Replicating the necessary salinity changes in captivity remains largely undocumented.

Compatibility & tankmates

This species is relatively peaceful but can be aggressive towards smaller tank mates. They are best kept in schools of at least five individuals to disperse aggression. Suitable companions include robust brackish fish like scats.

Tank level

Top/Middle

These fish are primarily active in the middle to upper levels. They are constant cruisers that appreciate plenty of open swimming space. They generally avoid the bottom substrate unless investigating food.