Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Aggressive

They have a bold, feisty, and strongly territorial temperament. They act like much larger fish and are not afraid to defend their home against bigger intruders. While their aggression requires careful tank mate selection, their active and inquisitive nature makes them an engaging pet.

Diet

Carnivore

Their diet must be heavily biased towards meaty marine foods to mimic their natural predatory behavior. Frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood should form the basis of their diet. Carnivore pellets can be offered, but a variety of frozen foods is essential for optimal health.

Sex ratio

Solitary

They should be kept individually to avoid severe, often fatal, conspecific aggression. Housing two unsexed individuals in the same aquarium will almost certainly result in the death of one. Only known, bonded pairs should be kept together, and even then, only with caution.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Due to their active nature and high metabolic rate, they require feeding two to three times a day. Only offer an amount they can consume entirely within a few minutes to prevent water fouling. Consistent feeding schedules can help mitigate some of their natural territorial aggression.

Bioload

The bioload is moderate, as expected for a small but active carnivorous fish. Their frequent, protein-rich meals lead to proportional waste production that needs effective management. A well-functioning protein skimmer and regular water changes will easily handle their biological impact.

Flow

Strong

They prefer moderate to strong water flow, characteristic of the dynamic reef environments they hail from. Adequate flow ensures good oxygen exchange and stimulates their natural swimming and foraging patterns. They will retreat into the rockwork when they desire a calmer environment to rest.

Jump risk

Yes

Like all species in this family, they are notorious jumpers and a high flight risk. A secure, tight-fitting mesh lid or glass canopy is absolutely essential for keeping them in the tank. They are easily startled by sudden movements or aggressive tank mates, which often triggers jumping.

Reproduction

Oviparous

While difficult, breeding them in captivity is possible; they are demersal spawners that lay eggs in caves. The male assumes the role of guarding and aerating the egg mass until the larvae hatch. Raising the fry is the primary hurdle, as they require a constant supply of specialized rotifers.

Compatibility & tankmates

Highly aggressive

They are territorial and can be quite aggressive toward fish that invade their chosen rocky crevices. They should not be housed with peaceful, timid fish, which they will inevitably bully. Best kept with appropriately sized, robust tank mates like dwarf angelfish, tangs, or larger damselfish.

Tank level

Bottom

They are bottom to mid-level dwellers that heavily rely on the live rock for territory and security. They claim a specific cave or crevice and spend their time darting out to snatch food or chase away rivals. They rarely, if ever, swim in the upper, open areas of the water column.