Hydrolycus Scrombrodies/Scombs
Captive Max Size:
There are few large Scombs in the hobby so the absolute maximum size is unknown. Current maximum size known is 12” in captivity (Unestablished). Beyond 12” is unheard of as this fish is identified with death by unknown reasons as well as a being susceptible to bacterial infections.
- I believe the Shedd Aquarium has documented 14" ers
Growth Rate:
Growth rates are slow, typically around ¼” per month
- Between 3-9 mo. this species will grow from 3" to 8" then slow down to a growth rate of 1/4-1/2" a year provided they have enuff space.
Tank Mates/ Temperament:
Scombs are usually comfortable with a wide variety of tank mates as long as there isn’t a significant size difference among the fish. Scombs are fairly calm and therefore, aggressive fish can pick on them and over power them. Most tank mates will grow much faster than Scombs. They can be skittish and vulnerable with over-active tank mates
- The problem tankmates I've noticed was large aggressive cichlids not because of thier aggressiveness but the cichlids aggressive eating habits will decimate the charciforms food supply. You might be suprised at how aggressive a Scomb can be towards other fish both smaller and larger in size. They will "shank" basically anything that annoys them.
Tank Size:
Tank size can vary from 20 gallons and up, depending on the size and growth rate of the fish.
- These fish are highly claustrophobic and do not do well in tanks smaller than 18" in width. 75gal. for juvi's 2' wide 120(4x2x2) and up for adults.
Identification:
1-Brownish tail that becomes transparent toward the back tip
2-Fairly small dark spot located behind the gill plate
3-Fins are moderate in size as compared to their body size
4-Have a very large Pectorial Fin
5-Swim at a large angle
Water Conditions:
Scombs like very clean water as they are prone to bacterial infections; they do best in a constant pH, with temperatures in the low 80degressF
- These fish do well in water with high levels of dissolved oxygen, low levels of Nitrate, and Temps in the mid to upper 70's . They are intolerant to Ammonia and Nitrite of any measurable level. A temp of 80 or higher will start to decline dissolved oxygen levels. Current is not as important as the overall 02 content.
Medication:
The safest medication is salt as they can be very sensitive to other medications.
- Cletted Cooper works well with Scombs for external parasites. We must also remember these fish are Tetras, when using Salt use only half the recommened dosage 1/2 TBS per gal.
AND to add to this section even more-
Food/Feeding:
- Your probably NOT going to ween your Scombriodes off of live foods so it is very important to include non-cyprinidae live foods into it's diet. Breeding your own is the safest way. Live bearing fish like Mollies and Swordtails work well. Convicts and African cichlids contain a spiney dorsal fin that may injury the Scombs internals. As for cyprindae use Rosies not Comets as they contain smaller amounts of Thiamanese.
- My 2 cents
