Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found inhabiting shallow coral reefs, rocky slopes, and coastal lagoons.
- Easily recognized by its distinct two-tone coloration, typically featuring a vibrant blue-black front half and a bright orange-yellow rear half.
- A playful and inquisitive fish known for its engaging personality and unique swimming style.
- Frequently seen perched on rocks or coral, observing its surroundings closely.
- Thrives in aquariums with abundant live rock, ample hiding spots, and consistent water quality.
Feeding
- Primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and micro-organisms growing naturally on live rock and coral.
- Diet should consist of marine algae, dried seaweed, spirulina-based flakes, and herbivore pellets.
- Occasionally accepts small amounts of frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.
- Best fed small amounts multiple times daily to match its natural grazing habits.
- A well-balanced diet rich in algae promotes vibrant coloration, overall health, and longevity.
Habitat
- Typically found among coral reefs, rocky areas, and lagoon habitats with substantial algae growth.
- Frequently observed perched atop rock formations or within small crevices, using these spots as vantage points.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock structures to facilitate natural grazing and hiding behavior.
- Requires stable water parameters, moderate flow, and high-quality filtration to maintain optimal conditions.
- Providing numerous hiding places reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C) to ensure healthy metabolic and immune function.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, maintaining salinity levels at a stable 1.020-1.025.
- Regular water changes, careful water monitoring, and efficient filtration systems are critical for optimal health.
- Considered reef-safe, posing minimal risk to corals and most invertebrates.
- Maintaining algae availability and consistent conditions helps minimize stress and enhance long-term health.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful and best housed with other non-aggressive, similarly sized marine species.
- Compatible with clownfish, gobies, small wrasses, cardinalfish, and other peaceful reef-safe fish.
- Avoid housing with aggressive or highly territorial species that could cause stress or competition.
- Suitable for community reef aquariums, where its active personality and beneficial algae-grazing contribute positively.
- Providing ample hiding and grazing areas ensures harmonious cohabitation with other aquarium inhabitants.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active and curious, regularly seen perching on rocks or coral structures, closely observing its environment.
- Exhibits territorial behavior occasionally, particularly when defending favorite perching or hiding spots.
- Quickly adapts to aquarium conditions, becoming increasingly confident and visible with stability.
- Providing structured rockwork with natural algae growth encourages typical grazing and exploratory behavior.
- Over time, it typically recognizes and interacts enthusiastically with its caretaker, particularly during feeding times.