Murray Cod 15cm

Murray Cod

The Murray Cod is commonly referred to as ‘THE’ predatory freshwater fish of Australia. Once almost driven to extinction because of their eating quality and excessive sports fishing the Murray Cod is the true definition of a comeback story. They are now being captive-bred and are rising in popularity in the Australian aquarium hobby. The Murray Cod is definitely not a fish for everyone due to its highly aggressive nature and large size but for those who can properly house this fish, they will really enjoy the mottled leopards like the color the cod has.

It has a large stocky body and the leopard patterning will develop further and further as this fish ages. This fish would be a great long-term addition to an aquarium as they have lifespans that exceed 50 years! Distinguishing males and females is very difficult with these fish and breeding them in the home aquaria has not been recorded before.

The captive breeding of Murray Cod takes place in large aquaculture facilities. Murray Cod are very shy as juveniles however as they age, they will become very personable and display themselves. They are best to be kept in an aquarium alone due to their aggression.

Tank Recommendations for your Murray Cod

Adult Murray Cod reach lengths of 1 meter+ and wight around 80 kilos. Because of this large size, they need an aquarium that is at least 1000 gallons (3785 liters) A sand or gravel substrate with a large piece of driftwood is great for this fish as it looks most natural.
Murray Cod will really prefer dim lighting which best replicates its wild environment.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Murray Cod is very aggressive and is always recommended to be kept alone. Though they may get along with other large natives like barramundi at a young age, then they grow their aggression and extreme territorial behavior will be a big issue for other tank mates.

Usually Compatible

In a large enough tank species like barramundi may be compatible but even this should have proceeded with utmost caution.

Sometime Compatible

N/A

Rarely Compatible

N/A

Feeding your Murray Cod

Being that these Apistogramma are wild-caught they may take a little bit to accustom themselves to foods such as pellet or flake. It is best to start feeding them with nano live foods such as blackworms, micro-worms and then wean them onto frozen foods. then an attempt can be made to feed prepared foods such as pellets or flake. Feeding should occur once a day and it is best to do so when the lights are on during the day.