Oddballs & Predators covers all the unusual, characterful and often toothy fish that don’t fit standard community categories, bichirs, gars, snakeheads, large knifefish and other specialist species. Many of these fish are powerful, predatory or highly territorial and will happily view smaller tank mates as food, so they’re best kept either in species-only setups or with similarly robust, appropriately sized companions. Most require spacious aquariums (often 300 litres and above), strong filtration, excellent oxygenation and secure lids, along with carefully planned aquascapes that provide both open swimming space and solid hiding areas. These fish are generally suited to more experienced aquarists who can meet their specific dietary, behavioural and long-term space requirements.
