Plectorhinchus gibbosus

Datasheet

General Description

The Harry Hotlips, scientifically known as Plectorhinchus gibbosus, belongs to the Haemulidae family and is commonly referred to with names such as Brown Sweetlips, Gibbus Sweetlips, and Harry Hotlips. This species, found in the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to South Africa and eastward to Samoa and Australia, showcases a significant difference in appearance between its juvenile and fully grown stages.

Aquarium Suitability

Aquarists considering the Harry Hotlips for their tanks must be aware that this species demands a very large aquarium, ideally at least 3000 liters when fully grown. Due to its rapid growth rate, providing the correct nutrition can be challenging, emphasizing the need for experience, preparation, and extra care to maintain its well-being in captivity. Additionally, its predatory nature poses a threat to smaller fish, shrimps, bivalves, worms, and snails.

Care and Hardiness

Characterized as a docile species, the Harry Hotlips requires frequent feedings, especially upon introduction to a new environment. Its diet should be varied, including fish, larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, and small crustaceans like krill and mysis. This species thrives in an aquarium with ample space for swimming and benefits from good hiding spots among live rocks to feel secure.

Reef Suitability

Considered reef-safe with caution, the Harry Hotlips must be monitored closely in a reef setup due to its foraging behavior and the potential impact on delicate coral and invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Harry Hotlips, it is crucial to provide a spacious environment with suitable hiding places and live rock formations. Maintaining stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH of 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

This species is known to sift through the sand in search of food, which can cause water cloudiness and disturb detritus. Being shy and docile, it is advisable to avoid housing the Harry Hotlips with more aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.

Feeding and Diet

To ensure the optimal health of the Harry Hotlips, providing a varied diet consisting of live foods such as Mysis or small live freshwater shrimp is recommended. Frequent feeding is essential, especially during the acclimatization period, to support their nutritional needs.

Habitat and Distribution

In its natural habitat spanning from the Red Sea to the Pacific islands, the Harry Hotlips inhabits a diverse range of environments, preying on benthic crustaceans, worms, and fish. Despite its challenging nature, this species adds a unique touch to large, well-prepared aquariums with careful consideration of its demands and behaviors.