Spotted Sweetlips

Spotted Sweetlips, Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides, undergoes a change from juvenile to adult that is almost amusing to observe. In its juvenile stage, it is a brown-maroon fish with relatively large white blotches. As it transforms to the adult coloration of white with small, dark spots, its juvenile white areas sometimes become elongated and sometimes fill with dark spots. The juveniles of the species swim with a unique motion, they hover and ambulate their bodies in a manner similar to an Ocellaris Clownfish. Once established, it has little interest in corals, but may eat any shrimp, snails, or worms; any crustaceans, being part of its natural diet, will likely be eaten. Initially a hesitant eater, it is likely that live food such as feed shrimp, brine shrimp, or blackworms must initially be offered. To its merit, it will also consume smaller bristleworms. Once it has become more adjusted, other meaty frozen preparations may be accepted. As an active swimmer, it is best to the Sweetlips multiple times daily. Because the Spotted Sweetlips can grow to more than 2 feet in the wild, it must be provided with a large, well-aerated aquarium.

This fish requires special care and is traditionally difficult to keep. It is, therefore, recommended only for the advanced aquarist or for aquatic research facilities.

Approximate Arrival Size for Spotted Sweetlips: Small: 1 to 2 in.; Medium: 2.5 to 3.5 in.; Large: 4 to 5 in.

Detailed Information about this animal.