Microcanthus strigatus

(Cuvier, 1831)

Stripey

Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Japan and China, south to Hawaii, and south to New Caledonia.

Size: 6 inches (16 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits coastal lagoon reefs and often seen in dense aggregation under ledges and in caves during the day and is found at depths between 3 to 400 feet (1 120 m) where it feeds on crustaceans and algae.

General Husbandry: Occasionally seen in the trade, having a yellowish body with numerous slanted dark bands.

Best maintained in well-established fish-only or reef aquariums with wide-open swimming areas, and preferably containing large amounts of algae growth.

This small fish is quite similar to some of those in the butterflyfish family, yet quite easy to maintain as it feeds on a wide variety of aquarium foodstuffs, including flake foods.

Should have greens in its diet, as an alga is its main stable in the wild.

A great beginners fish!

Taxonomy:

Order: Perciformes

Suborder: Percoidei

Family: Kyphosidae

Genus: Microcanthus

FYI: Best maintained in small groups.

Experience Level: Beginner

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivore

Coral Safe: Yes

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: With caution

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Tankmates: Peaceful

Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons

Temperature Range: 72 - 79°F (22 - 26°C)

Specific Gravity: 1.020 - 1.025

pH: 8.0 - 8.5