Four-Eyed Fish Care Guide
Anableps spp.
- Max Size
- 15.0 cm / 6.0"
- Temperature
- 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH Range
- 6.5 – 8.0
- Min Tank Size
- 150L (40 gal)
- Min Group Size
- 3 fish
- Tank Level
- Mid
- Origin
- Central America
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
Omnivorous. They primarily feed on small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter. Provide a balanced diet consisting of high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Community Compatibility
Four-Eyed Fish can be kept with peaceful community fish of similar size that inhabit different water levels. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species. Provide floating plants or structures near the water surface for them to rest and breed.
Good to Know
Four-Eyed Fish are jumpers, so ensure the tank is properly covered to prevent them from escaping. They also prefer slightly brackish water conditions, so consider adding a small amount of marine salt mix to replicate their natural habitat.
Gender Differences
Males are typically larger and more brightly colored than females.
About the Four-Eyed Fish
Caring for Four-eyed Fish in captivity can be a challenging endeavor. They require a spacious aquarium with ample surface area to allow them to swim near the water's surface. A tight-fitting lid is necessary to prevent their escape, as they are known to jump out of open aquariums. It is important to replicate their natural habitat by providing floating plants, open swimming areas, and a soft substrate.
Water quality is crucial for the well-being of Four-eyed Fish. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are necessary to maintain optimal conditions. It is important to monitor and maintain stable water conditions to ensure the health and longevity of these fish.
Feeding Four-eyed Fish is relatively straightforward. They are omnivorous and can be fed a varied diet that includes high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as small insects, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. It is recommended to offer a mix of both plant and animal-based foods to provide a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Four-eyed Fish are peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish species of similar size. However, it is best to avoid housing them with fin-nipping or aggressive tank mates. They are known to exhibit schooling behavior in the wild, so keeping them in small groups of four or more individuals is beneficial for their social well-being.
Breeding Four-eyed Fish in captivity is challenging and rarely accomplished. They are livebearers, meaning the females give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. The female Four-eyed Fish can produce a large number of fry, and it is recommended to provide plenty of floating plants or other protective structures for the newborns to hide in.
In conclusion, Four-eyed Fish are captivating and unique freshwater fish known for their divided eyes and semi-aquatic lifestyle. While they present some challenges in their care, their fascinating behaviors and distinctive appearance make them an intriguing addition to a well-maintained aquarium. By providing them with appropriate tank conditions, suitable tank mates, and a varied diet, Four-eyed Fish can thrive and offer aquarists a glimpse into the remarkable adaptations of the natural world.
Stock Four-Eyed Fish in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Four-Eyed Fish fits your aquarium