Ancient Fish (Gar / Butterflyfish)

About Ancient Fish (Gar / Butterflyfish)

Gar pike are native to North America and are recognized as living fossils whose appearance has changed little over 100 million years. Their elongated bodies, distinctive beak-like jaws, and tough, scale-like skin are hallmarks of the group, which includes species such as the spotted gar and alligator gar. Butterfly fish, on the other hand, originate from the Congo River basin in Africa and are known for their striking silhouette as they glide near the water surface with pectoral fins spread like wings. Both are carnivorous and are best kept alone or with large tankmates. Gar pike vary greatly in size by species, with alligator gar potentially exceeding one meter. The appeal of keeping these fish lies in the singular experience of living alongside creatures that connect you to the ancient history of life on Earth.

7 things to know before welcoming a Ancient Fish (Gar / Butterflyfish)

1. 1Tank Size for Large Growth

   Gar pike can exceed 1 meter depending on the species, requiring a large tank suited to their adult size. Even spotted gar need a 60–90 cm or larger tank as a baseline, so choosing a bigger setup from the start saves future hassle. Butterfly fish stay around 15 cm and are comparatively compact.

2. 2Carnivorous Nature and Tank Mates

   Both gar pike and butterfly fish are strongly carnivorous and will prey on fish small enough to fit in their mouths. Cohabitation with similar-sized fish may work, but avoid keeping them with small fish or fry. Butterfly fish particularly favor insects and small fish near the water surface.

3. 3Feeding Challenges

   Wild-caught or recently imported specimens may only accept live food, and transitioning them to prepared diets can take time and patience. Gar pike are typically weaned off feeder fish onto frozen or pellet foods gradually. Butterfly fish may also need time to accept floating dried foods.

4. 4Water Quality and Temperature

   Gar pike are relatively adaptable to water conditions, thriving in slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.5–7.5) at 22–28°C. Butterfly fish are native to Africa and prefer warmer temperatures (26–30°C). Both are sensitive to low oxygen levels, making proper aeration and filtration essential.

5. 5Estimated Keeping Costs

   Keeping large gar pike can involve significant upfront costs for large tanks, powerful filters, and heaters, potentially reaching tens of thousands of yen. Ongoing food costs can also add up if live or frozen foods are used regularly. Butterfly fish require smaller setups, making their overall cost relatively more manageable.

6. 6Escape and Jumping Risk

   Butterfly fish swim near the surface and have a habit of jumping out of the water when startled. A secure, gap-free lid is essential for their tank. Gar pike can also leap when swimming vigorously, so jump prevention measures are necessary for their tanks as well.

7. 7Long-Term Commitment and Lifespan

   Gar pike are long-lived fish that can survive 10–20 years or more in proper conditions. Releasing them into the wild is strictly prohibited regardless of circumstances, so a lifelong commitment to their care is essential. Butterfly fish also live approximately 5–10 years, making a long-term care plan important before acquiring one.

Frequently asked questions about Ancient Fish (Gar / Butterflyfish)

Q.Can beginners keep gar pike?

A.Smaller species like the spotted gar can be kept by beginners provided they have an appropriately sized tank and equipment. However, it is important to fully understand their carnivorous nature, growth potential, and long lifespan before getting started.

Q.Can butterfly fish be kept with other fish?

A.Small fish that can fit in their mouths will be eaten, making them poor tank mates. Calm fish of similar size that do not compete for the surface layer may coexist with them. Ample space and close observation are necessary if attempting a community setup.

Q.What should I feed gar pike?

A.Feeder fish such as goldfish are commonly used initially, with a gradual transition to frozen fish or prepared pellets. For nutritional balance and hygiene reasons, it is generally recommended to wean them onto prepared or frozen foods as soon as possible.

Q.Can gar pike and butterfly fish share a tank?

A.Butterfly fish grow to about 15 cm, making them at high risk of being eaten by a grown gar pike, so cohabitation is not recommended. Their preferred water temperatures and conditions also differ, making separate tanks the standard approach.

Q.What should I do if I can no longer keep them?

A.Releasing them into rivers or ponds is prohibited by law due to invasive species concerns and must never be done. Options include consulting fish shops or hobbyist groups that may accept them, or disposal through methods designated by your local authority. Please carefully consider whether you can commit to their care for life before acquiring one.

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