Overview
- Native to the Red Sea, typically inhabiting coral-rich reef slopes and rocky coastal areas.
- Known for its subtle yet attractive coloration, featuring shades of brown, tan, or olive with lighter belly areas, perfectly adapted for camouflage.
- An intelligent and inquisitive species, frequently observing its surroundings from elevated perches on corals and rocks.
- Generally peaceful but capable of defending its territory from similarly sized or shaped fish.
- Thrives in aquariums that replicate its natural reef habitat, complete with abundant live rock and stable water quality.
Feeding
- Primarily herbivorous, grazing on algae and organic material found naturally growing on reef surfaces.
- Diet in captivity should include marine algae, dried seaweed sheets, spirulina flakes, and specialized herbivore pellets.
- Occasionally accepts small quantities of frozen mysis shrimp or enriched brine shrimp for dietary variety.
- Benefits from frequent, small feedings throughout the day to mimic its natural grazing behavior.
- A diet rich in marine algae promotes vibrant coloration, robust health, and overall vitality.
Habitat
- Typically inhabits coral-rich reef slopes and shallow rocky environments abundant in marine algae.
- Often observed perched atop coral outcroppings or nestled within small crevices, serving as strategic vantage points.
- Aquarium setups should replicate these conditions, offering plenty of live rock for grazing and numerous hiding spaces.
- Stable water parameters, moderate water flow, and efficient filtration are crucial for maintaining optimal conditions.
- Providing various hiding spots and natural grazing surfaces supports its comfort and encourages natural behaviors.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C), essential for maintaining healthy metabolism and immune functions.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with stable salinity levels at 1.020-1.025.
- Regular water changes, consistent water monitoring, and effective filtration systems are necessary for optimal health.
- Generally reef-safe and poses minimal threat to corals or most ornamental invertebrates.
- Providing stable conditions and consistent algae availability helps minimize stress and maintains long-term health.
Compatibility
- Peaceful by nature, best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive marine species.
- Compatible with clownfish, gobies, smaller wrasses, cardinalfish, and other reef-safe community species.
- Should not be housed with highly aggressive or territorial species that may cause stress or competition for resources.
- Thrives in peaceful reef community tanks, where it contributes positively through beneficial algae control.
- Ensuring ample grazing areas and hiding spots supports harmonious relationships with other tank inhabitants.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active and observant, frequently perched atop rock structures, carefully surveying its surroundings.
- May occasionally exhibit territorial behaviors, particularly when defending favored perching spots.
- Adapts readily to aquarium environments, gradually becoming confident and visible with stable conditions.
- Providing structured rockwork and ample natural algae growth encourages natural foraging behaviors and reduces stress.
- Over time, it typically recognizes and interacts positively with its caretaker, especially during feeding sessions.