Pinnate Batfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Beguiling juveniles often prove difficult to feed in the home aquarium. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
The exquisite juveniles of this species appear with some regularity in the aquarium trade, but they should be avoided by all but the most experienced aquarists. Most will refuse to feed and are destined to starve.
Family: Ephippidae
Other common name(s):
- Pinnate Platax
- Redfin Batfish
- Dusky Batfish
Native range:
Habitat: House in a deep tank and provide with plenty of unobstructed swimming room. Unlike its relatives, it is shy and will need suitable hiding places and nonaggressive tankmates.
Maximum length: 45 cm (18 in)
Maximum height: 59 cm (23 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 757 L (200 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
General swimming level: Mid-level.
[edit] Feeding
Reportedly feeds on jellyfish and other gelatinous zooplankton, thus making it difficult to feed in the aquarium and thus best left in the wild.
Some individuals will take vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, live black worms, small pieces of fresh shrimp, squid, frozen mysid shrimp, and frozen preparations for herbivores. Feed 3 times a day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
A peaceful species—more than one can be kept per tank. Will eat many types of sessile invertebrates, including some corals and anemones.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Pelagic eggs and larvae.
| Common name | Pinnate Batfish +, Pinnate Platax +, Redfin Batfish +, and Dusky Batfish + |
| Family | Ephippidae + |
| Genus | Platax + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum height | 23 in + |
| Maximum length | 18 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 200 gal + |
| Native range | Western Pacific +, Ryuku Islands +, and Australia + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Marine Fishes + |
| Specific name | pinnatus + |
| Swimming level | Mid-level. + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |