Description
Physical Characteristics
- Size: They can grow up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) in the wild, but typically smaller in home aquariums.
- Appearance: They have a distinctive spotted pattern that gives them their name, with protective spines on their gill covers and dorsal fin.
Habitat Requirements
- Tank Size: A minimum of 25 gallons is recommended, but a 60-gallon tank is ideal.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 23-28°C (73-82°F)
- pH: 6.0-7.0
- Water Hardness: 5-19 dGH
- Aquarium Setup: They prefer a tank with plenty of plants and hiding spots. They are nocturnal and more active at night
Behavior and Diet
- Behavior: They are predatory and will hunt invertebrates and smaller fish. They are also known for their nocturnal activity.
- Diet: They are omnivores and will eat smaller fish, invertebrates, and prepared foods.
Compatibility
- Tank Mates: They can be kept with similarly sized peaceful fish, but they may prey on smaller fish and invertebrates.
- Social Behavior: They are generally peaceful towards their own species but can be aggressive towards smaller tank mates.
Lifespan
- Lifespan: They typically live between 1.4 to 4.4 years.
