More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 5000 litres / 1320.86 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 86.0cm / 33.86inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Unknown |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:
Yellowtail snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus) belongs to the Lutjanidae family and is known for its bright yellow fins and tail, contrasting with its silvery body. These predatory fish typically feed on a variety of invertebrates, including crustaceans, snails, sea urchins, and worms. Yellowtail snappers prefer to forage at the bottom of the ocean and may dig in the sand to find food.
Aquarium Suitability:
Considered suitable for aquariums with caution, Yellowtail snappers require diligent care due to their predatory nature. They can be a threat to smaller fish and crustaceans in the tank. When fully grown, they demand a very large aquarium to accommodate their size and swimming habits, making them challenging to keep in a typical home aquarium.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness:
With an average hardiness level, Yellowtail snappers need frequent feeding, especially when newly introduced into the aquarium. They have a heavy appetite and require a diet that includes fish, larger and smaller crustaceans, and zooplankton. It is important to provide them with ample space for swimming, as well as hiding spots like overhangs and caves to help them feel secure.
Reef Suitability:
Yellowtail snappers are reef-safe with caution, as they may pose a threat to certain reef inhabitants, particularly smaller crustaceans. It is advisable to monitor their behavior closely in a reef setting to ensure the well-being of other tank inhabitants.
Aquarium Setup:
To cater to the needs of Yellowtail snappers, an aquarium should have a minimum capacity of 5000 liters and be equipped with overhangs and caves. Maintaining water conditions within the parameters of pH 8.1-8.4, temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their well-being.
Behaviour:
The temperament of Yellowtail snappers is unknown, but they are known to grow rapidly when provided with a well-rounded diet and suitable living conditions in the aquarium.
Feeding and Diet:
Yellowtail snappers require a varied diet that includes fish, larger and smaller crustaceans, and zooplankton. Feeding them multiple times a day, especially when they are new to the tank, helps meet their nutritional needs.
Habitat and Distribution:
These snappers are commonly found in the Mexican Gulf and the West Atlantic Ocean. Their natural habitat includes coral reefs, rocky bottoms, and coastal areas with ample food sources for their predatory behavior.