New Zealand Smelt Aquarium Care Guide

Keeping New Zealand Smelt in an aquarium requires the right conditions.

Aquarium Information

• Care level: advanced
• Temperament: peaceful
• Diet: carnivore
• Minimum tank size: 75 gallons (for a small school)
• Compatibility: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other small, peaceful, cold-water fish that can tolerate similar water parameters. Avoid aggressive or much larger tank mates.
• Special requirements: Requires excellent water quality, high oxygenation, and a strong current to mimic natural riverine environments. A well-filtered tank with plenty of open swimming space is essential. Landlocked populations may adapt better to aquarium life than diadromous forms. Live or frozen small invertebrates are preferred food. Not commonly kept in aquaria due to specific environmental needs and migratory behaviors.

Water parameters

Temperature

10-20°C (50-68°F)

pH level

6.5-7.5

Hardness

Soft to moderately hard (5-15 dGH)

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