Anableps anableps

Largescale four-eyed fish

Image of Anableps anableps

Scientific Classification

Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Actinopterygii
Order:Actinopterygii
Family:Anablepidae
Genus:Anableps
Species:anableps
IUCN Status:Least Concern

Quick Stats

Difficulty
Hard
Environment
Brackish
Temperature
24°C - 30°C
pH Level
7 - 8.5
Water Hardness
180 - 360 ppm
Lifespan
8 years
Origin
South America
Adult Size
20 - 30 cm
Diet
Carnivore
Creature Type
Fish
Water Flow
Low Flow

About This Species

The Largescale four-eyed fish is a truly unique aquatic wonder, famous for its remarkable eyes. These special organs are not actually four separate eyes, but two eyes that are each split in half. This amazing feature lets the fish see both above and below the water at the same time! It's like having built-in bifocals for nature. This allows them to expertly spot insects on the surface to eat, while also watching for any dangers lurking underneath. They spend almost all their time swimming right at the top of the tank, which is fascinating to watch. However, this also means it's absolutely essential to have a very secure and tight-fitting lid on the aquarium, as they are known to be skilled jumpers trying to escape. This is not a fish for small aquariums or beginners. It grows quite large, reaching a significant size, and is very active, so it needs an extremely spacious home to thrive. They are social creatures and feel most comfortable and secure in a group, so you should plan to keep at least six together, which further increases the need for a large tank. One of the biggest challenges is that they require special water conditions known as 'brackish,' which is a mix of freshwater and saltwater. Creating and maintaining this environment requires special equipment and regular testing. This, combined with their size, diet, and active nature, makes them a challenging species best suited for experienced fishkeepers who are ready for a significant commitment. They are carnivores and enjoy a diet of meaty foods, eagerly accepting floating snacks that mimic the insects they'd catch in the wild.

Aquarium Building Information

Minimum Tank Size

240L

Swimming Zone

top

Minimum School Size

6+

Special Requirements

Oxygen Consumption

Medium

Waste Production

High

Feeding Frequency

Daily

Metabolism Rate

Medium

Activity Level

Active

Food Types

Live Food, Flakes, Pellets, Freeze Dried


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