Cigar Shark (2.5-2.75”)

Scientific Name

Leptobarbus hoevenii

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Can grow up to 24–28 inches (60–70 cm) in captivity, and possibly even larger in the wild.

• Lifespan: Typically 10–15 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Change, and Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 180 gallons (1100 liters) or larger—these are very active, fast-growing fish that need long tanks for swimming space. Juveniles can be raised in a 40-125 gallon tank for better observation

• Water Changes: 30–40% weekly, as they are large fish that produce significant waste.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5
    

• General Care: They require pristine water conditions, strong filtration, and open swimming areas. A secure lid is necessary, as they are strong jumpers.

Tankmates

• Best kept with other large, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish.

• Suitable companions:

  • Large barbs (like Tinfoil Barbs), Large catfish (Pangasius, Synodontis, Ripsaw Catfish), Large cichlids (Severums, Uarus, Oscars if temperament allows), Silver Dollars and Bala Sharks

• Avoid: Small fish (they may be eaten) and overly aggressive tankmates that may harass them.

Diet

• Omnivorous but primarily herbivorous.

• In the wild, they graze on algae, plant matter, fallen fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates.

• In captivity, feed a mix of:

  • High-quality pellets formulated for large omnivorous fish

  • Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini, peas)
    

  • Frozen Bloodworms and Shrimp

• Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts they consume quickly, as they are voracious eaters.

Overview

The Cigar Shark is a large, powerful schooling fish that requires a massive aquarium to thrive. It is hardy once established but only suitable for advanced aquarists due to its size and care requirements. Its torpedo-like body shape and fast swimming make it resemble true sharks in behavior, hence the name.

Natural Environment

• Found throughout Southeast Asia—particularly Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo.

• Inhabits large rivers, floodplains, and lakes, where it migrates seasonally.

• Known to feed on fruits and seeds that fall into the water during flooding seasons.

Breeding

• Extremely difficult in captivity.

• Cigar Sharks are migratory spawners, requiring seasonal cues such as flooding and long-distance swimming to trigger reproduction.

• No confirmed reports of successful aquarium breeding exist; commercial breeding is usually achieved through hormonal induction in large outdoor ponds or fish farms.

The Cigar Shark (Leptobarbus hoevenii) is a stunning but challenging aquarium fish, reaching 2 feet or more and requiring very large aquariums, excellent water quality, and a diet rich in plant matter. While they can coexist with other large, peaceful species, their size and activity make them suitable only for expert keepers. Breeding in home aquariums is not feasible.