Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, found in coral reefs and deep lagoons with rich coral cover.
- Easily identified by its bright yellow body, a distinct black marking above the eye, and a dark spot on the gill cover.
- A semi-aggressive species known for its curious and territorial behavior.
- Popular among marine aquarists due to its striking appearance and unique personality.
- Requires a well-maintained aquarium with plenty of swimming space and rock structures.
Feeding
- Omnivorous diet, feeding on sponge, algae, and small invertebrates in the wild.
- Readily accepts a variety of foods, including marine flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp and krill.
- Supplementing with sponge-based foods and vitamin-enriched meals helps maintain health and coloration.
- Requires frequent small feedings throughout the day to meet its dietary needs.
- Avoiding overly processed foods helps ensure long-term vitality and immune strength.
Habitat
- Commonly found in deep reef slopes, rocky outcrops, and areas with abundant coral growth.
- Prefers stable water conditions with moderate to strong water movement.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock structures to mimic natural hiding spaces.
- Thrives in large, well-established reef tanks with diverse marine life.
- Providing caves and overhangs encourages natural behavior and reduces stress.
Fish Care
- Ideal water temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C) for maintaining vibrant coloration and activity.
- pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025 to support a healthy immune system.
- Requires high water quality with effective filtration to prevent stress-related diseases.
- Regular water changes and testing for ammonia and nitrate levels ensure a stable environment.
- Providing a well-balanced diet and a stress-free setting enhances longevity.
Compatibility
- Semi-aggressive, best housed with similarly sized or larger fish to prevent bullying.
- Compatible with tangs, larger wrasses, and other angelfish with proper introduction.
- Should not be housed with small, timid fish or slow-moving species that may be harassed.
- May nip at coral polyps, making it a risky choice for reef aquariums.
- Providing ample hiding spots and a well-structured tank setup minimizes aggression.
Aquarium Behavior
- An active swimmer that patrols its territory throughout the day.
- May become territorial towards new tank mates if introduced improperly.
- Often seen grazing on algae-covered surfaces and inspecting rock crevices.
- Providing a well-structured tank with rockwork and hiding spaces supports natural behaviors.
- Can become more confident and engaging when housed in a properly maintained environment.