Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs and lagoons.
- Easily recognizable due to its bright yellow body and elongated snout.
- Uses its long snout to extract small invertebrates from crevices.
- A peaceful species, often seen in pairs or small groups in the wild.
- Highly active swimmers, requiring ample space in aquariums.
Feeding
- Primarily feeds on small invertebrates, crustaceans, and coral polyps.
- Adapts well to aquarium diets, including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
- May also graze on algae and small benthic organisms.
- Feeding multiple times per day ensures proper nutrition and energy levels.
- Needs a varied diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Habitat
- Commonly inhabits reef slopes, coral outcrops, and rocky formations.
- Requires stable water conditions and a well-established aquarium setup.
- Best housed in an aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots.
- Prefers environments with moderate water flow, mimicking natural reef currents.
- Ideal for mature reef tanks with diverse microfauna.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- Ideal pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Requires a minimum tank size of 75 gallons for adequate movement.
- Highly sensitive to poor water quality; regular maintenance is essential.
- Best suited for experienced aquarists due to its dietary needs.
Compatibility
- Peaceful fish that coexists well with other non-aggressive species.
- Should not be housed with aggressive or territorial tank mates.
- Compatible with other butterflyfish, tangs, gobies, and wrasses.
- Avoid housing with predatory fish that may see it as prey.
- May become territorial towards similar species in smaller aquariums.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active swimmer, constantly exploring its environment.
- Spends time searching for food in rock crevices and coral formations.
- May display shy behavior initially but becomes more outgoing over time.
- Forms bonds with tank mates, often seen swimming in pairs.
- Exhibits natural foraging behavior when provided with a diverse habitat.