Gonioplectrus hispanus

(Cuvier, 1828)

Spanish Flag

Range: Western Atlantic Ocean: North Carolina south to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, and also south to Brazil.

Size: 12 inches (30 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits deep rocky reef areas and usually found at depths between 100 to about 1,200 feet (30 – 350 m) where it feeds mainly on crustaceans and smaller fishes.

General Husbandry: Rarely seen in the trade, mainly because of its collection depths, yet quite attractive and hardy. Has a yellowish body with reddish horizontal lines from the snout to tail.

Best maintained in aquaria having rock caves and crevices and possibly somewhat dimmed, as most specimens are taken from deep waters. If maintained in a brightly lit reef aquarium, will spend most of its time in its darker areas. Tankmates should be large enough not to be eaten and able to protect themselves, yet not overly aggressive.

As to diet, will eat most regular aquarium foods, e.g., live fortified brine shrimp and/or finely chopped various frozen or fresh meaty foods such as mysis, squid, fish flesh, shrimp, clam, etc., and should be offered once or twice daily.

Taxonomy:

Order: Perciformes

Suborder: Percoidei

Family: Serranidae

Subfamily: Epinephelinae

Genus: Gonioplectrus

FYI: One per aquarium.

Prefers cooler water temperatures, e.g., low 70’s (22°C).

Slightly aggressive towards passive species/tankmates, e.g., fire gobies, anthias, and small wrasses and other even larger species.

Will eat small ornamental shrimp.

Experience Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Feisty/Bold

Diet: Carnivore

Coral Safe: Yes

Fish Safe: With caution

Invertebrate Safe: With caution

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Tankmates: Peaceful

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

Temperature Range: 72 - 80°F (22 – 27°C)

Specific Gravity: 1.020 - 1.026

pH: 8.0 - 8.5