Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Live Plant Safe: With Caution
General Description: The Argentus Mono, also known as the Silver Moony or Mono Angelfish, has a very large natural distribution throughout coastal and inland waters of Asia, Africa and Australia. The Argentus mono’s preferred habitat depend on their age; juvenile specimens may be found temporarily in freshwater environments but require at least brackish conditions long term. Adults, on the other hand, prefer full marine conditions. Adult and juvenile Argentus monos look similar, having a uniquely-tall diamond shaped silver body and yellow dorsal fin. The exception is that juveniles will also have a pair of vertical brown stripes in the face, which fade with maturity. A social and shoaling species, the Argentus mono should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals but more are encouraged. All individuals should be introduced at the same time because Argentus monos establish a hierarchical system. An adult Argentus mono can reach a size of approximately 10″.
Diet Requirements: Monos are omnivores, however a larger portion of their diet should be plant based. A diet consisting of various frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms and other saltwater or freshwater mixes that contain algae, such as spirulina, will maintain optimal health and coloration. We also recommend offering blanched vegetables such as spinach and lettuce. Dried seaweed is another great option. Monos may also accept high quality flake foods and pellet foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 90 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of small Argentus monos. As these grow larger, a 150 gallon aquarium or bigger is more ideal. Argentus monos will appreciate some aquascaping to swim around and through, but prefer a lot more of open and unobstructed swimming space. Frequent, small water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters clean (Nitrates < 20 ppm) as they are intolerable to deteriorating water parameters. Argentus monos require generous water movement and higher oxygen levels due to their activity level. Common tank mates for the Argentus mono include Scats (Scatophagus spp.) and Archers (Toxotes spp.), though monos are generally peaceful and can be compatible with a wide variety of fish. As adults, they may be considered more semi-aggressive or pushy. Most brackish tanks are kept at a salinity between 1.005 and 1.012. Unlike aquarium salt for freshwater, brackish tanks use marine salt. To achieve this salinity, we recommend mixing 1/8 cup of marine salt per one gallon of water. To err on the side of caution, you can use less and check the salinity level by using a hydrometer or refractometer. A marine sand or aragonite substrate is also preferred for the bottom. Brackish water plants, such as Mangroves (Rhizophora spp.), would be desired to have in the aquarium by an Argentus mono. While there are few plants that otherwise tolerate brackish conditions, it should be kept in mind that Argentus monos do like to feed on certain soft leaved plants. Recommended water conditions, 76-84° F, KH 8-12, pH 7.0-8.0, salinity 1.008-1.012.
Purchase Size: Small: 1″ to 1-3/4″; Medium: 2” to 3”; Large: 3-1/4” to 4”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
