SILVER MONO

Introduction: • Common Names: Silver Mono, Silver Moony, Fingerfish • Natural Habitat: Native to brackish estuaries, coastal areas, and river mouths throughout the Indo-West Pacific region, including East Africa and Southeast Asia. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Disc-shaped, silvery body with a slight sheen; yellowish-tinted fins and a faint black outline along the dorsal and anal fins. • Size: Can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Typically lives 7-10 years in well-maintained conditions. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons for juveniles; larger tanks are needed for adults due to their active swimming habits. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C). o pH: 7.5-8.5, with slightly brackish water recommended (1.005-1.015 salinity). • Aquascaping: Requires open swimming areas; minimal decorations with a sandy substrate and some hardy plants or driftwood are ideal. Diet: • Primary Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on small invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus in the wild. • Supplemental Feeding: Offer quality flake foods, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms. • Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times daily, offering small portions. Compatibility: • Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be semi-aggressive if overcrowded or stressed. • Suitable Tank Mates: Ideal with other brackish or similarly sized, peaceful species; avoid very small or slow-moving tank mates. • Incompatibilities: Avoid fin-nipping or aggressive species, as well as very small fish. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate; requires brackish water and a stable environment. • Health Monitoring: Monitor for typical brackish water fish diseases and ensure stable salinity and water parameters. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Rarely bred in home aquariums; little is known about their specific breeding behavior in captivity. • Spawning: Typically spawn in the wild in large schools. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: Popular for brackish community tanks due to their attractive appearance and active nature. • Pricing: Moderately priced; availability depends on size and region. Conclusion: The Silver Mono is a striking fish that brings energy and activity to larger brackish or marine setups. Its hardiness and unique silver coloration make it a popular choice for experienced aquarists who can meet its space and water requirements.