Plectorhinchus picus

Datasheet

General Description

The Painted sweetlip (Plectorhinchus picus), also known as the Dotted sweetlips or Black and white sweetlips, belongs to the Haemulidae family, specifically under Plectorhinchus. This species is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from Seychelles to the Society Islands, extending north to Japan and south to Lord Howe and Rapa Islands. It is generally rare or absent in most parts of the western Indian Ocean but is abundant in the Seychelles.

Aquarium Suitability

The Painted sweetlip is deemed suitable for aquariums, but with caution and careful consideration. Due to its rapid growth rate and large mature size of up to 85.0cm, it demands a very capacious tank, with a minimum size of 3000 liters when fully grown. Given its predatory nature, this species can pose a threat to smaller fish, shrimps, bivalves, worms, and snails, making it essential to house it with suitable tank mates. Additionally, the Painted sweetlip requires regular feeding and a varied diet to thrive in captivity.

Care and Hardiness

This species is considered docile and shy, emphasizing the importance of keeping it away from more aggressive tank inhabitants. The Painted sweetlip acclimatizes best when introduced to the aquarium at a young age, as small individuals can be quite delicate. With a preference for multiple feedings per day, especially upon introduction, maintaining a well-fed Painted sweetlip is crucial for its well-being. Providing ample hiding spots, such as among live rocks, is essential to help reduce stress and ensure its comfort.

Reef Suitability

Reef hobbyists can keep the Painted sweetlip in a reef aquarium with caution. However, attention must be paid to its predatory behavior towards small invertebrates typically found in reef environments.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for the Painted sweetlip requires ample space for swimming due to its active nature. Live rocks to facilitate hiding places, a sandy substrate for natural foraging behaviors, and a well-thought-out feeding regimen are essential components for a successful tank environment.

Behaviour

In the aquarium, the Painted sweetlip showcases a docile temperament, emphasizing the need for a peaceful community tank. It displays natural behaviors such as searching through the sand for food, which can lead to water cloudiness and the disturbance of detritus.

Feeding and Diet

To meet its nutritional requirements, the Painted sweetlip must be offered a varied diet. This includes fish, larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton like Cyclops and pods.

Dimorphism

Regarding dimorphism and captive reproduction, specific information on these aspects of the Painted sweetlip species is not provided in the source material.

Habitat and Distribution

The Painted sweetlip inhabits the Indo-Pacific region, from Japan to the Society Islands and Lord Howe to Rapa Islands, with a preference for sandy substrates and rocky outcrops. Its distribution is limited in the western Indian Ocean but more common in areas like the Seychelles.