Unique predatory characin found throughout much of the Amazon Basin, the Marble Gar is commonly found in small groups at the surface of shallow water in the wild, where they hunt for shoals of smaller fish and insects. In the aquarium, they can be skittish fish, especially at first, and will do best with some cover in the form of floating plants or driftwood close to the surface. They are best kept in groups of 3 or more and will school with other larger characins. Primarily a live fish eater, they will usually require live food but can be weaned onto frozen or prepared diets over time.
Marble Gar (Boulengerella maculata)
Origin:Â Wild Colombia
Diet:Â Predator and fish eater. Can be weaned onto frozen and prepared foods over time.
Adult Size: 12″
Recommended Tank Size:Â 75 gallons
Compatibility:Â Generally peaceful, but will eat smaller fish
Preferred Water Parameters
pH:                         6.5 – 7.2
Temp:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 76-82F
Ammonia:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 0ppm
Nitrite:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 0ppm
Nitrate:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â <30ppm