Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean: South Africa, Great Barrier Reef

Size: up to 4 inches (10 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits coastal lagoon coral heads, outer reef slopes, and outer reef faces and found singly or in small aggregations at depths of 10 to 200 feet (3 – 60 m). Diet in the wild consists of algae and detritus. Males form small social groups having two to five females.

General Husbandry: Accepts a wide variety of foods in the aquarium including fortified brine shrimp, mysis, and flake food, especially Spirulina. Requires three or four feedings per day. Color varies somewhat depending upon area of collection. Very hardy, yet somewhat shy, and needs many hiding places. May nip corals and clams, therefore risky in some reef environments. Not suited for a small aquarium, i.e., 30 gallons or less, as they may become quite dominating in small aquariums. Always select an individual that looks active, alert, full-bodied, interested in its surroundings and accepts food. Demonstrating curiosity and searching for food are also good signs of a healthy fish. Prefers a temperature of 72 - 82°F (22 – 27°C).

Possibly, a bare bottom tank containing much coral rubble and rocks forming caves and crevices might be the best environment for this fish. Reason being they also feed on detritus, and bare bottom tanks make it easier for them to access areas containing this medium. It’s also quite easy to occasionally clean areas under loosely stacked rock and rubble in bare bottom tanks with the flow from a powerhead.

Aquarium Suitability: *