Taenianotus Triacanthus# (The Leaf Scorpionfish)

Overview

• Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, rocky crevices, and lagoon environments.
• Recognized for its leaf-like body shape and unique ability to sway with water currents, mimicking a floating leaf.
• A slow-moving, ambush predator that relies on its camouflage to capture unsuspecting prey.
• Comes in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, brown, and green, to blend seamlessly with its surroundings.
• Best suited for aquariums with plenty of rock formations, caves, and subdued lighting to mimic its natural habitat.

Feeding

• Carnivorous, primarily preying on small fish and crustaceans in the wild.
• Requires a diet of live or frozen marine foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small feeder fish.
• May take time to accept frozen foods and often needs live food initially before transitioning.
• Should be fed multiple times per week, as it does not require daily feeding like more active fish.
• A varied diet ensures proper nutrition and helps maintain its natural hunting instincts.

Habitat

• Prefers reef-associated environments with rock crevices, coral rubble, and shaded overhangs.
• Frequently found resting motionless, blending into coral or rocky surfaces.
• Aquarium setups should include live rock for natural hiding spots and to create visual barriers.
• Requires stable water parameters and efficient filtration to prevent waste buildup.
• Providing dim lighting or shaded areas helps reduce stress and supports natural behavior.

Fish Care

• Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support metabolic stability.
• Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
• Requires regular water changes and a well-maintained aquarium to prevent disease.
• Not reef-safe, as it may prey on small fish and ornamental shrimp.
• Providing rock structures and a low-stress environment helps maintain overall well-being.

Compatibility

• Best housed with other slow-moving or similarly predatory species.
• Compatible with larger angelfish, groupers, and other predatory marine species.
• Should not be housed with small fish or shrimp, as they will likely become prey.
• Best suited for a species-specific or predator-focused aquarium.
• Providing ample hiding spots and structured territories reduces stress and aggression.

Aquarium Behavior

• A slow-moving, highly camouflaged predator that remains motionless for long periods.
• Frequently observed swaying gently with the water movement to mimic a drifting leaf.
• More active during feeding times, striking prey with incredible speed.
• Providing a structured environment with rockwork encourages natural behaviors.
• Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and respond to feeding cues.