Saltcorner
By Bob Goemans
By Bob Goemans
Not Reef Tank Suitable
Likely Fish-Only Tank Suitable
Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Japan, Taiwan, Philippines, Fiji, Marshall and Easter Islands.
Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Natural Environment: Inhabits outer shallow reef slopes and hides near rocks and sponges and is usually found at depths below 50 feet (15 m), where it mainly feeds on small fishes and crustaceans.
General Husbandry: Rarely ever seen in the trade, and also somewhat uncommon in the wild. Often has a mottled yellow, reddish brown, or an almost totally black body with a dark spot at the base of the dorsal fin and often two white spots on the tail. Is capable of transforming to other colors if desired. Equipped with an angling lure that dangles an enticing looking object near its mouth.
Best maintained in a very small fish-only aquarium with tankmates too large to be eaten, or possibly a single species aquarium, with some decor, such as live rocks, that will give the species the feeling of being secure while waiting dinner.
As to diet, keep in mind these fish are carnivores and require a diet high in protein and amino acids (lipids/fats). Products such as live marine fish and/or marine fish and crustacean flesh, clams, and other marine meaty foods should make up the majority of their diet. Non-living foodstuffs can be suspended/impaled on a long thin stick and dangled within range to entice feeding.
Occasional small live mollies and/or guppies can provide for that natural feeding excitement found in the wild should live marine fish not be available. Nevertheless, feeding small freshwater live fish should be considered a special treat and not become a steady diet since they lack the fatty acids that marine fish need to stay healthy.
Because these are sedentary fish, their metabolism is quite low. Adults require two feeding weekly, whereas juveniles require four feedings per week.
Taxonomy:
Order: Lophiiformes
Suborder: Antennarioidei
Family: Antennariidae
Subfamily: Antennariinae
Genus: Antennarius
FYI: Poor choice for reef aquariums, as it would stay hidden most of the time.
Will consume very small ornamental crustaceans.
Best maintained in their own private environment.
Has a counterpart species in the Western Atlantic Ocean – A. pauciradiatus.
Lacks a swim bladder, that's why they are bottom dwelling fishes.
Lacks teeth, swallows prey whole.
Experience Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet: Carnivore
Coral Safe: Yes
Fish Safe: With caution
Invertebrate Safe: With caution
Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+
Aquarium Environment: Fish only aquarium
Tankmates: Peaceful, yet large enough not to be eaten
Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons
Temperature Range: 72 - 80°F (22 – 27°C)
Specific Gravity: 1.020 - 1.026
pH: 8.0 - 8.5
