Exotic - Mono Diamond Moonfish 5cm

 

Monodactylus argenteus

 

 

Common Names:

 Mono Fish, Silver Moony, Diamond Moonfish

 

 

 

Family:

 Monodactylidae

 

 

 

Origin:

 Coastal waters, estuaries, and mangroves of the Indo-Pacific, including East Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

 

 

 

 

 

1. Appearance & Behavior

 

 

Mono Argenteus has a laterally compressed, diamond-shaped silver body with yellowish hues on the fins and head. They are highly active schooling fish that require a large tank and plenty of swimming space.

 

• Size: Up to 25 cm (10 inches) in captivity
• Lifespan: 7–10 years
• Temperament: Peaceful but should be kept in groups of at least 5 to reduce stress and aggression

 

 

 

 

 

2. Tank Requirements

 

 

Since Monos transition from freshwater to brackish and even marine environments as they mature, their tank setup should reflect this:

 

• Minimum Tank Size: 250 liters (66 gallons) for juveniles, larger for adults
• Water Type: Brackish to marine (Juveniles can tolerate freshwater, but they require brackish water as they grow)
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel (mimicking coastal environments)
• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and marine-style décor; leave open swimming space
• Lighting: Moderate to bright

 

 

 

 

 

3. Water Parameters

 

 

• Salinity: 1.005–1.018 SG (gradually increase as they mature)
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Hardness: 8–20 dGH
• Filtration: Strong filtration and high oxygenation (they are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste)

 

 

 

 

 

4. Tank Mates

 

 

Mono Argenteus are social but require specific tank mates due to their brackish water needs. Suitable tank mates include:

 

• Scats (Scatophagus spp.)
• Archerfish (Toxotes spp.)
• Brackish puffers (e.g., Green Spotted Puffer, if carefully managed)
• Other Monos

 

 

Avoid slow-moving, aggressive, or very small fish, as Monos can be fin nippers.

 

 

 

 

5. Diet & Feeding

 

 

Monos are omnivorous and need a varied diet to stay healthy.

 

• Staple Foods: High-quality marine flakes or pellets
• Live/Frozen Foods: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, mysis shrimp
• Vegetables: Blanched spinach, algae wafers
• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times a day in small amounts

 

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