Skunk Tilefish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Tilefishes demand expert aquarium care to survive. Scott W. Michael
Overview
Tilefishes need plenty of open swimming space to exercise their naturally active tendencies. They often fail to thrive, jumping to their deaths, careening off aquarium tops, failing to get enough food to thrive.
Family: Malacanthidae
Other common name(s):
- Redback Sand Tilefish
Native range:
- West Central Pacific
- Indonesia
- Palau
- Philippines
- Papua New Guinea
- Tonga
- Solomon Islands
Habitat: Deep waters plunging down from reefs.
Maximum length: 12 cm (5 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 208 L (55 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (75 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F)
General swimming level: All levels.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton in the wild. Needs several feedings per day to keep up with its energetic swimming activities. Offer meaty foods, such as mysid shrimp.
Aquarium Compatibility
Peaceful. Juveniles acclimate more readily than adults. Builds large rubble mounds in the wild.
Breeding/Propagation
Not reported in captivity.