Overview
- Native to the Western Atlantic, particularly around the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, commonly found in rocky reefs and deep-water structures.
- Recognized for its elongated body, vibrant reddish-brown coloration, and distinctive patterns along its sides.
- A small, yet predatory species, often hiding within crevices and darting out to ambush prey.
- Generally peaceful but may display territorial tendencies, particularly toward similar-sized fish.
- Best suited for aquariums with ample rock formations, hiding spots, and stable water conditions.
Feeding
- Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, worms, and tiny fish in its natural habitat.
- Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets.
- Readily accepts prepared foods but benefits from occasional live food to encourage natural hunting behaviors.
- Should be fed at least once or twice daily to maintain proper nutrition and energy levels.
- A varied protein-rich diet enhances its vibrant coloration and supports overall health.
Habitat
- Prefers reef-associated environments with shaded areas, caves, and rocky outcroppings for shelter.
- Frequently found near coral heads and reef ledges, using its surroundings for camouflage.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock structures to provide hiding spaces and encourage natural behavior.
- Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration to maintain optimal water conditions.
- Providing dim lighting or shaded regions helps reduce stress and support its reclusive nature.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to ensure metabolic stability.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires consistent water changes and strong filtration to prevent waste buildup.
- Reef-safe but may consume very small ornamental shrimp or delicate invertebrates.
- Providing a structured environment with caves and rockwork reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but may be territorial with similarly sized basslets and small predatory fish.
- Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other reef-safe species that are not overly aggressive.
- Should not be housed with large predatory fish that may see it as prey.
- Best kept in a community setup with ample space to prevent territorial disputes.
- Providing multiple rock formations and hiding areas reduces stress and territorial aggression.
Aquarium Behavior
- A cryptic and secretive species that spends much of its time hiding among rocks.
- Frequently observed darting out from crevices to ambush small prey.
- More confident in a well-established aquarium with plenty of shelter.
- Providing a structured environment with caves and ledges encourages natural hunting behaviors.
- Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and actively respond during feeding sessions.