Waspfishes

Critter Spotlight: Ablabys taenianotus

Photo Credit: David Cook

These fishes belong in the Order Scorpaeniformes and Suborder Scorpaenoidei, where they are members of the Family Tetrarogidae. There are11 genera having a total of 35 species These are small bottom dwelling fish, usually quite nocturnal, and requiring live foods, yet can be trained to take meaty food, e.g., shrimp on a stick. They hide during daytime, therefore require appropriate hiding places. Some bury themselves in deep sand. Easily picked upon by larger more aggressive fish. All require special care from the hobbyist.

Ablabys

• Ablabys taenianotus (Cockatoo Waspfish)

Paracentropogon

• Paracentropogon longispinis (Wispy Waspfish)

Richardsonichthys

• Richardsonichthys leucogaster (Whiteface Waspfish)