Macolor niger

Datasheet

General Description

The Black and White Snapper, scientifically known as Macolor niger, belongs to the Lutjanidae family, specifically the Macolor genus. They can grow up to 75.0cm in size and are native to the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to Samoa, and down to Australia. These predatory fish primarily feed on fish and various invertebrates, with a preference for crustaceans, snails, sea urchins, and worms. Unlike some snapper species, Macolor niger feeds on larger zooplankton. They are generally considered hardy fish but require a very large aquarium due to their potential size.

Aquarium Suitability

The Black and White Snapper is deemed suitable for aquariums but requires meticulous care and attention. It demands a spacious tank, with a minimum size of 2000 liters, as these fish grow rapidly when well-fed. They can coexist with their own species if introduced together and prefer aquariums with overhangs and caves for hiding spots. This species is a heavy eater, necessitating a tank that can accommodate their feeding habits.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Macolor niger is characterized by its average hardiness and the need for a varied diet. They thrive when fed multiple times a day, especially during initial introduction and acclimatization periods. This fish appreciates live food to aid in adaptation and should be provided with ample swimming space in the aquarium. While initially shy, they can become more comfortable over time, allowing for the introduction of more aggressive tankmates.

Reef Suitability

Considered reef safe with caution, the Black and White Snapper may pose a threat to smaller crustaceans within a reef environment. Due to their predatory nature, precautions should be taken when housing them in a reef tank to prevent harm to other inhabitants.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, an aquarium housing Macolor niger should include a large overhang or cave structure to provide hiding places. The tank should maintain water conditions with a pH level between 8.1-8.4, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.

Behaviour

The temperament of the Black and White Snapper is listed as unknown, but their behavior in an aquarium setting can range from shy initially to more adaptable and interactive as they acclimatize to their environment. They tend to thrive in settings with overhangs and caves, where they can retreat or seek shelter.

Feeding and Diet

This species thrives on a diet consisting of fish, larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton like cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet is essential for their overall health and well-being.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Black and White Snappers inhabit the waters of the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, the Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific region. Their distribution spans from as far north as central Japan to as far south as Australia, encompassing the diverse Indo-Pacific marine ecosystem.