Overview
- Native to the Western Pacific, particularly around Fiji, Tonga, and surrounding regions.
- Recognized for its vibrant blue body with a striking yellow or orange underbelly.
- A hardy and aggressive species, known for its territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks.
- Typically found in shallow reef areas, where it shelters among rock crevices and coral formations.
- Best suited for a well-structured aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and tankmates that can handle its assertive nature.
Feeding
- Omnivorous, feeding on plankton, algae, and small crustaceans in its natural habitat.
- Requires a balanced diet of high-quality marine flakes, frozen mysis shrimp, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp.
- Adapts well to prepared foods and benefits from occasional live food feedings.
- Should be fed multiple small meals per day to sustain energy levels and promote optimal coloration.
- A nutrient-rich diet supports longevity and helps maintain its aggressive yet active nature.
Habitat
- Prefers coral reef environments with moderate water flow and plenty of rocky hiding places.
- Frequently seen near coral heads and reef ledges, using them as shelter and territorial zones.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock to establish territory and promote natural behaviors.
- Requires stable water conditions and strong filtration to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
- Providing structured rock formations and open swimming areas ensures a balanced environment.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to maintain activity and health.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires routine maintenance and frequent water changes to prevent aggression due to stress.
- Reef-safe, but may become territorial toward similar-sized or smaller tankmates.
- Providing rock structures allows it to establish a home territory, reducing aggression toward other fish.
Compatibility
- Semi-aggressive and best suited for tanks with similarly sized, robust fish.
- Compatible with clownfish, tangs, larger wrasses, and other assertive reef fish.
- Should not be housed with timid or small fish that may be harassed.
- Works best in larger tanks where multiple territories can be established.
- Providing ample space and rock formations helps manage aggression and territorial disputes.
Aquarium Behavior
- An extremely active and bold species that enjoys patrolling its designated territory.
- Frequently observed chasing away intruding fish, especially those of similar size or color.
- More confident when provided with plenty of rock formations and hiding spots.
- Providing a well-structured reef environment helps control aggression and supports natural behaviors.
- Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and actively engage during feeding sessions.