Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean: Comoros to Line, Marquesan, and Society Islands, north to southern Japan, south to New Caledonia; Guam and Marshall Islands

Size: Up to 14 inches (35 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabit outer reef slopes

General Husbandry: Has a temperature range of 72 - 82°F (22 - 28°C) and their natural diet consists mainly of small fishes and crustaceans. Requires a meaty diet, i.e., enriched chopped fish or shrimp flesh, and two feedings per week. As with all soapfish, if stressed, it may release a toxic substance (grammistin) from the skin that could kill itself and all tankmates. Prevent any stressful conditions in the tank! Non-aggressive, except to something that can be swallowed. Not yet seen in the trade that I know of, shown here for identification as it's a nice looking fish and no doubt will be in the trade in the foreseeable future.

Aquarium Suitability: * * & * * * *