Australian Smelt (Retropinna semoni) 1-3cm

Description


Fast-moving, peaceful and beautifully understated, the Australian Smelt is a hardy native schooling fish that brings constant movement and natural behaviour to freshwater aquariums. With their shimmering silver bodies and gentle temperament, these Australian natives are an excellent choice for cool or temperate community aquariums and native biotope displays.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Retropinna semoni
  • Common name: Australian Smelt
  • Current size: Please refer to the selected size option
  • Adult size: Approximately 6–8 cm
  • Tank size: 75L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟒 Easy
  • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
  • Social needs: Best kept in groups of 6 or more

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You want an authentic Australian native aquarium.
  • You enjoy active schooling fish with natural behaviour.
  • You keep peaceful community species.
  • You appreciate hardy fish that adapt well to a range of aquarium conditions.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You plan to house them with large predatory fish.
  • You only want brightly coloured tropical species.
  • You intend to keep them singly or in very small groups.
  • Your aquarium has poor water movement or neglected water quality.

Why choose Australian Smelt?

Australian Smelt are one of Australia's most widespread native freshwater fish and are prized for their peaceful nature and lively schooling behaviour. Their sleek silver bodies reflect light beautifully as they move together through the aquarium, creating an elegant, natural display.

Unlike many schooling fish that remain near the surface or bottom, Australian Smelt utilise the entire water column. They constantly explore their surroundings and become increasingly confident when maintained in larger groups.

Their adaptability, active behaviour and compatibility with other peaceful Australian natives make them an excellent addition to native-themed aquariums, educational displays and temperate community setups.

Benefits

  • Beautiful Australian native species
  • Peaceful and highly active schooling fish
  • Shimmering silver colouration
  • Excellent for native biotope aquariums
  • Hardy and adaptable
  • Suitable for temperate and unheated aquariums in many Australian homes

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 16–26Β°C
  • pH: 6.5–8.0
  • Diet: High-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods, live foods and small aquatic invertebrates
  • Water: Clean, well-filtered and well oxygenated
  • Substrate: Sand, fine gravel or natural river-style substrate
  • Setup: Open swimming space with native plants, driftwood and gentle water movement
  • Keep in groups of at least six fish to encourage natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress.
  • Regular water changes help maintain their brilliant silver appearance and overall health.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Pacific Blue Eyes
  • Empire Gudgeons
  • Crimson-spotted Rainbowfish
  • Firetail Gudgeons
  • Australian Glass Shrimp
NTA Insight:
Australian Smelt are often overlooked because they lack the bright colours of many tropical fish, but what they offer is authentic Australian character. In a well-planted aquarium with a healthy-sized school, their synchronised swimming, shimmering scales and constant activity create a stunning natural display. They're an excellent ambassador for Australia's unique freshwater ecosystems.

FAQ

How many Australian Smelt should I keep?

They are true schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six, with larger groups producing more natural behaviour and a more impressive display.

Do Australian Smelt require a heater?

Not always. They naturally occur in temperate waterways and are comfortable across a broad temperature range, making them suitable for many unheated Australian aquariums depending on your local climate.

Are Australian Smelt peaceful?

Yes. They are very peaceful and make excellent companions for other similarly sized native and community fish.

Can they live with shrimp?

Adult shrimp are generally suitable tank mates, although very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten.

What do Australian Smelt eat?

They are opportunistic omnivores and readily accept quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods and small live foods.

Are Australian Smelt suitable for beginners?

Yes. Their hardy nature, peaceful temperament and simple care requirements make them an excellent introduction to Australian native fishkeeping.

Can they be kept in tropical aquariums?

Yes, provided temperatures remain within their preferred range. They are most comfortable in cooler to moderately warm aquariums rather than very warm tropical setups.

How long do Australian Smelt live?

With excellent care, Australian Smelt commonly live for 3–5 years while maintaining their active schooling behaviour.

Australian Smelt (Retropinna semoni) 1-3cm

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Out of stock,  

$12.95  $4.95


All prices include GST
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    Description


    Fast-moving, peaceful and beautifully understated, the Australian Smelt is a hardy native schooling fish that brings constant movement and natural behaviour to freshwater aquariums. With their shimmering silver bodies and gentle temperament, these Australian natives are an excellent choice for cool or temperate community aquariums and native biotope displays.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Retropinna semoni
    • Common name: Australian Smelt
    • Current size: Please refer to the selected size option
    • Adult size: Approximately 6–8 cm
    • Tank size: 75L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟒 Easy
    • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
    • Social needs: Best kept in groups of 6 or more

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You want an authentic Australian native aquarium.
    • You enjoy active schooling fish with natural behaviour.
    • You keep peaceful community species.
    • You appreciate hardy fish that adapt well to a range of aquarium conditions.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You plan to house them with large predatory fish.
    • You only want brightly coloured tropical species.
    • You intend to keep them singly or in very small groups.
    • Your aquarium has poor water movement or neglected water quality.

    Why choose Australian Smelt?

    Australian Smelt are one of Australia's most widespread native freshwater fish and are prized for their peaceful nature and lively schooling behaviour. Their sleek silver bodies reflect light beautifully as they move together through the aquarium, creating an elegant, natural display.

    Unlike many schooling fish that remain near the surface or bottom, Australian Smelt utilise the entire water column. They constantly explore their surroundings and become increasingly confident when maintained in larger groups.

    Their adaptability, active behaviour and compatibility with other peaceful Australian natives make them an excellent addition to native-themed aquariums, educational displays and temperate community setups.

    Benefits

    • Beautiful Australian native species
    • Peaceful and highly active schooling fish
    • Shimmering silver colouration
    • Excellent for native biotope aquariums
    • Hardy and adaptable
    • Suitable for temperate and unheated aquariums in many Australian homes

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 16–26Β°C
    • pH: 6.5–8.0
    • Diet: High-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods, live foods and small aquatic invertebrates
    • Water: Clean, well-filtered and well oxygenated
    • Substrate: Sand, fine gravel or natural river-style substrate
    • Setup: Open swimming space with native plants, driftwood and gentle water movement
    • Keep in groups of at least six fish to encourage natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress.
    • Regular water changes help maintain their brilliant silver appearance and overall health.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Pacific Blue Eyes
    • Empire Gudgeons
    • Crimson-spotted Rainbowfish
    • Firetail Gudgeons
    • Australian Glass Shrimp
    NTA Insight:
    Australian Smelt are often overlooked because they lack the bright colours of many tropical fish, but what they offer is authentic Australian character. In a well-planted aquarium with a healthy-sized school, their synchronised swimming, shimmering scales and constant activity create a stunning natural display. They're an excellent ambassador for Australia's unique freshwater ecosystems.

    FAQ

    How many Australian Smelt should I keep?

    They are true schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six, with larger groups producing more natural behaviour and a more impressive display.

    Do Australian Smelt require a heater?

    Not always. They naturally occur in temperate waterways and are comfortable across a broad temperature range, making them suitable for many unheated Australian aquariums depending on your local climate.

    Are Australian Smelt peaceful?

    Yes. They are very peaceful and make excellent companions for other similarly sized native and community fish.

    Can they live with shrimp?

    Adult shrimp are generally suitable tank mates, although very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten.

    What do Australian Smelt eat?

    They are opportunistic omnivores and readily accept quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods and small live foods.

    Are Australian Smelt suitable for beginners?

    Yes. Their hardy nature, peaceful temperament and simple care requirements make them an excellent introduction to Australian native fishkeeping.

    Can they be kept in tropical aquariums?

    Yes, provided temperatures remain within their preferred range. They are most comfortable in cooler to moderately warm aquariums rather than very warm tropical setups.

    How long do Australian Smelt live?

    With excellent care, Australian Smelt commonly live for 3–5 years while maintaining their active schooling behaviour.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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