Overview
- Commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, often inhabiting coral reefs and lagoons.
- Easily recognized by its pale body adorned with multiple yellow horizontal stripes running from head to tail.
- A nocturnal species that prefers to remain hidden during the day, becoming more active at night.
- Frequently found in small groups or pairs, sheltering among coral branches or rocky overhangs.
Feeding
- Carnivorous, primarily preying on planktonic organisms, small crustaceans, and zooplankton.
- Accepts a variety of live and frozen foods, including brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods.
- Can adapt to eating high-quality marine flakes and pellets when introduced gradually.
- Prefers multiple small meals throughout the day, especially during dimly lit periods.
Habitat
- Typically resides in coral-rich environments, hiding among branching corals and crevices for protection.
- Prefers stable water conditions with a moderate water current.
- Aquariums should include ample live rock and shaded hiding areas to create a comfortable setting.
- Thrives in reef tanks with plenty of shelter while allowing open swimming areas.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- Ideal pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires clean water conditions with strong filtration to maintain its health.
- Ammonia and nitrite levels should be kept at a minimum to prevent stress-related illnesses.
- Providing a dim environment with subdued lighting helps mimic their natural deepwater habitat.
Compatibility
- A peaceful species that thrives in community reef tanks with other non-aggressive fish.
- Compatible with tangs, gobies, wrasses, and other small to medium-sized reef-safe species.
- Should not be housed with large or aggressive fish that may see them as prey.
- Best kept in small groups or pairs, as they exhibit natural schooling behavior.
Aquarium Behavior
- Nocturnal by nature, often retreating to caves and coral crevices during daylight hours.
- Becomes more active in the evening, exploring the aquarium and searching for food.
- Forms small schools in the wild but can be kept singly or in pairs in a home aquarium.
- Providing plenty of hiding spaces and a structured tank setup encourages natural behaviors.