Leaf Scorpionfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
This colorful species resembles a leaf and mimics plant debris by rocking back and forth. Scott W. Michael
Overview
This lovely scorpionfish comes in many colors, including pink, maroon, yellow, and white. It is a great scorpionfish for the reef aquarium as it tends to spend time in the open.
Family: Scorpaenidae
Other common name(s):
- Leaffish
- Paperfish
- Sailfin Leaffish
- Threespine Scorpionfish
Native range:
Maximum length: 10 cm (4 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 57 L (15 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (75 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F)
Feeding
Meaty foods, including frozen seafood. May require live ghost shrimp or gut-packed livebearers (mollies, guppies) to initiate a feeding response. The best way to feed this fish in a reef tank is to train it to “jump” onto the edge of a net that contains its food.
Aquarium Compatibility
It will do best if not housed with overly aggressive food competitors (a species-dedicated nano-reef would make a wonderful home for this fish). They are not overly aggressive toward each other or toward other fish species, but they may spar with each other.
Notes
With its laterally compressed body and high dorsal fin it resembles a leaf or macroalgae frond. It also mimics bits of plant debris by rocking back and forth or swaying from side to side.