Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, especially around reef slopes and outer reef drop-offs.
- Displays vibrant orange to reddish coloration in males, while females are more subdued in color.
- A peaceful and active schooling fish, often seen mid-water in groups above coral structures.
- Recommended for intermediate aquarists due to their specific dietary needs and sensitivity to water quality.
Feeding
- Planktivorous; feeds primarily on zooplankton and small floating organisms in the wild.
- Thrives on a varied diet including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, plankton-based foods, and finely chopped marine fare.
- Requires multiple small feedings throughout the day to mimic natural grazing habits.
- Regular, high-quality feeding supports coloration, health, and activity levels.
Habitat
- Best kept in aquariums of 70 gallons or larger, with plenty of open water for swimming and rockwork for hiding.
- Stable water conditions are crucial, with minimal fluctuations in parameters.
- Low-stress environments with calm lighting and gentle current help promote natural schooling behavior.
- A mature reef setup with clean, oxygen-rich water supports long-term success.
Fish Care
- Ideal water temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).
- pH level: 8.1–8.4; specific gravity: 1.020–1.025.
- Sensitive to water quality; maintain consistent parameters with regular testing and water changes.
- Quarantine new additions and monitor for signs of stress or disease.
Compatibility
- Peaceful and social; best housed in groups with one male and several females.
- Reef-safe and compatible with most corals and invertebrates.
- Tank mates should be peaceful and non-aggressive to avoid stress and competition.
- Ideal companions include gobies, dartfish, firefish, and peaceful wrasses.
Aquarium Behavior
- Highly active and often seen swimming in the mid to upper water column.
- Displays best behavior and coloration when kept in a secure, low-stress environment with ample space.
- Social behavior is enhanced when kept in small harems with a clear social structure.
- Providing a balanced environment with room to school encourages vibrant, natural behavior.