Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Live Plant Safe: No

General Description: The Green Bay Snook, also referred to as the Wild Bay Snook or Giant Cichlid, have a large distribution in lakes and slow-moving rivers in Mexico and several countries in Central America. Typically sold as mere juveniles at only a few inches in length, Green bay snook can reach an impressive adult size of approximately 12″ to 15″ in the home aquarium. Although Green bay snook are an ambush predator with a unique jaw that allows its mouth to extend forward to grab prey with ease, they are otherwise rather non-aggressive so long as tank mates aren’t viewed as a meal. This species would do excellent in a “monster fish” aquarium set up with other large-growing species with mild temperaments. Differences between males and females are subtle. Note: This color variety is infrequently available compared to the Red Bay Snook.

Diet Requirements: Green bay snook are piscivores but they do not require live fish in the aquarium to thrive long term. In fact, we discourage feeding live fish because they are often of little nutritional value and increase the risk of introducing disease. A diet made up of various high quality proteins are ideal, mainly frozen chunks of bloodworm, shrimp, silverside fish, and beef heart. Options will vary depending on the size of your specimen. Green bay snook may accept large sinking pellet foods, but these should not make up a large portion of the diet. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function, and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 75 gallon aquarium is ideal for a small Green bay snook. More room would be required for a pair or small group. As the fish grows in length, the aquarium will have to be upgraded to a unit of a couple hundred gallons. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 30 ppm). Equipping the aquarium with a canister filter, or a sump system, is also suggested to maintain a healthier environment for this species, combat the amount of waste it produces as it gains size, and keep the aquarium well oxygenated. A Green bay snook will be relatively indifferent to decor, but some stacked rocks to create caves for younger specimens to hide, or driftwood, may add some pizzazz to the aquarium. A lot of unobstructed space should be of priority. It is not uncommon for your Green bay snook to rearrange light or loose decor. Given the predatory nature of Green bay snook, only other large growing species with similar temperament (not overly aggressive) should be considered. Tank mates introduced into an aquarium with a Green bay snook should be at least half or equal to its size to avoid being eaten. Recommended water conditions, 74-80° F, KH 15 or greater, pH 7.0-7.5.

Purchase Size: Small: 2″ to 2-1/2″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.