Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral-rich reefs and lagoons.
- Recognized for its bright yellow body adorned with an intricate black lattice pattern and a distinctive black eye band.
- A relatively hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity if provided with suitable conditions.
- Frequently found alone, in pairs, or in small groups in the wild.
- Best suited for experienced aquarists due to its dietary needs and sensitivity to water conditions.
Feeding
- Omnivorous, feeding on coral polyps, small invertebrates, and algae in the wild.
- In captivity, it requires a varied diet including sponge-based foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and marine algae.
- Can be challenging to acclimate to prepared foods, requiring patience and proper feeding strategies.
- Multiple small feedings per day mimic its natural grazing behavior and support good health.
- A well-balanced diet promotes longevity and vibrant coloration.
Habitat
- Commonly found in coral reef environments with abundant rock formations for shelter.
- Prefers stable water conditions with moderate water currents.
- Aquarium setups should incorporate live rock to provide natural food sources and hiding places.
- Thrives in pristine water conditions, requiring efficient filtration and water maintenance.
- Providing an environment with coral structures enhances its natural behaviors and comfort.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) to support a healthy immune system.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires high-quality water with frequent water changes to maintain optimal conditions.
- Not recommended for reef tanks, as it tends to nip at soft corals and sessile invertebrates.
- Providing rock structures and a stable environment helps minimize stress and promotes natural feeding habits.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but may become territorial toward similar species.
- Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive reef fish.
- Not considered reef-safe due to its tendency to graze on coral polyps and small invertebrates.
- Should not be housed with highly aggressive fish that may stress or outcompete it for food.
- Providing ample swimming space and rock structures helps reduce territorial behavior.
Aquarium Behavior
- An active and curious fish that enjoys exploring its surroundings.
- Frequently seen picking at rock surfaces and interacting with its environment.
- May take time to adjust to captivity but becomes more confident once acclimated.
- Providing live rock enhances natural foraging behavior and provides a sense of security.
- Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and become more interactive, particularly during feeding sessions.