Size
23-25 cm
Physical Characteristics
This species has an elongated, laterally compressed body. The Elephant Nose features a tiny round mouth that is situated above the extension, or proboscis, that resembles a trunk. The anal and dorsal fins are situated across from one another, and the dorsal and ventral profiles are symmetric.
Temperament
When it comes to disposition, the Elephant Nose Fish is a really interesting fish. When left alone, these fish typically exhibit very calm and serene behavior. They merely want to follow their own agenda and avoid making a scene.
Habitat
The lower Niger River basin, the Ogun River basin, and the upper Chari River are particularly home to the native elephant nose fish. It favours ponds with cover like buried branches and muddy, slowly moving rivers.
Keeping as Pet
- Tank Size
The ideal tank size for elephant nose fish is 50 gallons. This assumes your aquarium has just one of these species. Given their size, these fish will enjoy whatever more room you can give them. Also, it will lessen the probability of hostile conduct.
- Water Parameters
As an owner, it will be your responsibility to maintain excellent water quality as well as the stability and consistency of the characteristics specified below.
Water is between 73°F and 82°F (the middle of this range is ideal)
pH ranges from 6.5 to 7.2 (6.9 is a good target)
Hardness of water: 0–10 KH
- Feeding
Animal Nose Fish are carnivores and consume a wide range of foods high in protein and meat. This often refers to a variety of insects and larvae, and you’ll be closely reproducing this in captivity as well.
Although they seem to prefer brine shrimp and bloodworms, there are numerous options available. It’s also a good idea to add some chopped tubifex, larvae, and earthworms. These meals not only make up their regular diet, but they also serve as a good source of enrichment. Elephant Nose Shrimp appear to enjoy eating these items a lot. If trained, they will even eat from your hand.
- Tank mates
Also, you want their tank mates to live in harmony. You should choose fish with similar temperaments because elephant nose fish don’t like conflict with other species.
Here are a few excellent choices: Congo Tetra, Black Ghost Knife Fish, Cory Catfish, Dwarf Gourami, Bichir, Honey Gourami, Sparkling Gourami, Pearl Gourami, Discus and Angelfish.
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