Common name: Lizardfish
General information
The Indian Lizardfish, Synodus indicus, is a species of fish belonging to the family Synodontidae. It is known for its elongated body and lizard-like appearance, with a mouth full of sharp teeth that is indicative of its predatory nature. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as other more colorful and reef-compatible fish, but it can be an interesting addition for those looking to replicate a diverse biotope aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 40 cm (1′4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers sandy substrates for ambush hunting.
- Diet
- Carnivore Feeds on small fish and crustaceans.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept singly.
- Reefsafe
- No May prey on small fish/inverts.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Aggressive towards smaller fish.
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderGrinnersAulopiformes
- FamilyLizardfishSynodontidae
- GenusLizardfishSynodus
- SpeciesLizardfishSynodus indicus (Day, 1873)
- SynonymsSaurus indicus Day, 1873Synodus dietrichi Kotthaus, 1967
Care
Synodus indicus requires a larger tank with plenty of open sand areas for burrowing and hunting. They are ambush predators, so providing a setup that mimics their natural habitat with hiding places and ample space to swim is crucial. They can be aggressive towards smaller fish and invertebrates, so tank mates should be chosen with care. A varied diet of meaty foods such as small fish, shrimp, and squid is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, lizardfish are known to spawn by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. However, breeding Synodus indicus in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
Habitat
The Indian Lizardfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, north to southern Japan, and south to the Great Barrier Reef. They are typically found on sandy or rubble substrates near coral reefs, often burying themselves with only their eyes and mouth protruding to ambush prey. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 90 meters.