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Murray Cod at Aquarium Zone Ballina
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Algae Eater / Aquarium Zone · Ballina

Murray Cod.

Maccullochella peelii

Aggressive, and best with robust tankmates of a similar size. Grows to about 180 cm and suits a tank of 2000 litres or more.

Ask about this fish Explore care guide

The fish, up close

More than a beautiful fish.

The Murray Cod, scientifically known as Maccullochella peelii, is a large and iconic freshwater fish native to Australia. They have a streamlined body with a mottled olive-green colouration and distinctive markings that provide excellent camouflage in their natural habitat of rivers, lakes, and streams. Murray Cod have a broad head with large eyes and a protrusible mouth equipped with sharp teeth, indicating their predatory nature. These fish can grow to impressive sizes and are highly sought after by anglers for their strength and fighting ability.

Care guide

Build a better match.

Use these notes to shape a setup around the fish, then speak with our team about the tank you have in mind.

Plan your setup

Behaviour

How it lives.

As ambush predators, Murray Cod are known for their patient hunting strategy, waiting for prey to come within striking distance before swiftly capturing them with a sudden lunge. They are generally solitary and territorial fish, often claiming a specific area within the aquarium as their own. While they can be aggressive towards tank mates, especially if they are perceived as threats or competition for food, they can coexist with other large, robust fish in a spacious tank.

Tank planning

Set it up well.

Providing adequate hiding spots and structures like caves, driftwood, and rocks is essential for Murray Cod to feel secure and exhibit natural behaviours. Water quality should be closely monitored, with regular water changes and filtration to maintain optimal conditions. Due to their size and predatory nature, tank mates should be carefully selected to avoid any potential conflicts.

Practical details

Plan the space and routine.

Origin
Murray Cod are endemic to the Murray-Darling river system in southeastern Australia.
Max Size
180 cm
Diet
Murray Cod are carnivorous predators, feeding primarily on a diet of smaller fish, crustaceans, insects, and other aquatic organisms.
Tank Recommendation
A minimum tank size of 1000 litres is recommended for a single adult Murray Cod to allow ample space for swimming and territorial behaviour. Larger tanks exceeding 2000 litres are preferable for accommodating multiple Murray Cod or suitable tank mates.

Questions

Plan before you bring one home.

For a specific fish, current stock or a tank setup question, speak with the Aquarium Zone team before travelling.

Contact the store
Is Murray Cod available at Aquarium Zone in Ballina?

Aquarium Zone regularly helps customers find freshwater fish in Ballina and across the Northern Rivers. Stock changes week to week, so contact the store before visiting if you are looking for Murray Cod.

Can Aquarium Zone help me decide if Murray Cod suits my aquarium?

Yes. Bring your tank size, current fish list, setup photos, and any water test results so the team can help with compatibility, stocking, and care advice.

What tank size does Murray Cod need?

Murray Cod is listed with this tank recommendation: A minimum tank size of 1000 litres is recommended for a single adult Murray Cod to allow ample space for swimming and territorial behaviour. Larger tanks exceeding 2000 litres are preferable for accommodating multiple Murray Cod or suitable tank mates. Ask in-store for advice based on your exact setup and tank mates.

Do you serve customers outside Ballina?

Yes. Aquarium Zone serves aquarium hobbyists from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Bangalow, Byron Bay, Lismore, Evans Head, Mullumbimby, Casino and the wider Northern Rivers.

Aquarium Zone / Ballina

Choose with confidence.

Looking for Murray Cod? Contact us to confirm current availability and discuss whether it suits your aquarium before making the trip.

18 Southern Cross Drive
Ballina NSW 2478
(02) 6686 0002
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