"Rocket Gar"
Ctenolucius hujeta

$14.99$18.99

Please note that the fish shown in the photo is not the exact fish you will receive and is only a representative of what a specimen will look like. The color may vary based on the age and sex (if listed as unsexed) of the fish you receive. These fish are illegal in Mississippi and Texas. We are unable to send this fish to these states.

SKU: ¤Rocket Gar WILD (C. hujeta) MD Categories: ,

Description

Ctenolucius hujeta, commonly known as the “Rocket Gar,” is a predatory and active freshwater fish species native to South America. Here’s a summarized care sheet for Ctenolucius hujeta:

Max Size:
– The maximum size for Ctenolucius hujeta (Rocket Gar) is around 12-14 inches (30-35 centimeters) in length.

General Care:
– Rocket Gars are predatory fish and should be kept in a species-only aquarium due to their aggressive nature towards smaller tankmates.
– As juveniles they do shoal and need a group to feel comfortable (3-4 individuals).
– They are active and fast swimmers, requiring ample swimming space in the aquarium.

Tank Requirements:
– Tank size: A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Rocket Gars.
– Filtration: Use a powerful and efficient filter to maintain water quality and provide strong water circulation.
– Water parameters: Temperature 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 2-15 dGH.
– Substrate: Use sand or fine gravel as the substrate.

Feeding:
– Rocket Gars are carnivorous and predominantly eat small fish in the wild.
– Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, frozen or live fish, shrimp, and other meaty foods.

Tankmates:
– Rocket Gars are aggressive and territorial, particularly towards smaller fish.
– Avoid keeping them with peaceful or small tankmates, as they may be seen as prey.

Decor and Environment:
– Provide plenty of open swimming space for the Rocket Gars to move around freely.
– Use rocks, driftwood, and other hiding spots to create a natural-looking environment.
– Ensure a tightly fitted lid or cover for the aquarium, as Rocket Gars are excellent jumpers.

Water Maintenance:
– Perform regular water changes (20-25% weekly) to maintain water quality and remove waste.
– Monitor water parameters frequently to ensure they are within the recommended range.

Behavior:
– Rocket Gars are active and have a distinctive hunting behavior.
– They are known for their ability to jump out of the water to catch prey, so take precautions with a secure aquarium cover.

Healthcare:
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent disease transmission.
– Observe for any signs of illness or stress and address issues promptly.

Observation and Enjoyment:
– Spend time observing and enjoying the unique behavior and powerful movements of Rocket Gars.
– Create a suitable and safe environment for the fish to express their natural instincts.

By providing the appropriate tank size and meeting the specific care requirements, you can create a suitable and healthy environment for Rocket Gars, ensuring they thrive and display their best behavior in captivity.