Three-spined Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus)
Fish in the family Gasterosteidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameGasterosteus aculeatus
FamilyGasterosteidae
Also known asCommon Stickleback, Tiddler
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size2.8 in
Minimum tank size15 gallons
Water parametersTemp 39-68°F, pH 7.0-8.5, GH 8-25 dGH
Appearance
Slender silver coldwater fish with three dorsal spines; breeding males develop a brilliant red throat and blue eyes.
Difficulty and care for the Three-spined Stickleback
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Northern Hemisphere temperate waters
Keeper notes
Males fiercely territorial and nippy when nest-building/breeding; can harass tankmates. Predatory on shrimp and fry.
Log Three-spined Stickleback in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Three-spined Stickleback alongside everything else in your reef.
