More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 2000 litres / 528.34 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 45.0cm / 17.72inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Docile |
| 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:The Indian goatfish (Parupeneus indicus) is a member of the Mullidae family known for its distinctive "beard" used when foraging in the sand. This fish can grow up to 45.0cm in size and is found in the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Gulf of Aden to southern Japan and Australia.
Aquarium Suitability:Considered suitable for experienced aquarists willing to provide the necessary preparation and extra care due to its demanding nature and specific requirements. These fish are known to be docile but can pose a threat to smaller tank mates like fishes, crustaceans, worms, snails, and other invertebrates.
Demands, Care and Hardiness:This species requires a very large aquarium, with a minimum tank size of 2000 liters when fully grown. They are considered average in hardiness but are prone to malnutrition in captivity, requiring a varied diet fed 4-5 times a day. Indian goatfish are skilled jumpers and may leap out of open aquariums.
Reef Suitability:Reef safe with caution, as they are known to be predators and may consume small fish and crustaceans.
Aquarium Setup:To replicate their natural habitat, the aquarium for Indian goatfish should have a large open area with a mix of sand and coral gravel. They require plenty of space for swimming and are known to sift through sand for food, which can lead to cloudy water.
Behaviour:Indian goatfish are described as shy and docile, emphasizing the need for caution when housing them with more aggressive tank mates.
Feeding and Diet:Their diet consists of fish, larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. Frequent feeding is essential, especially when they are newly introduced to the tank.
Dimorphism:Dimorphism information is not provided for this species.
Habitat and Distribution:They are found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, East Pacific, and Central/West Pacific, inhabiting coastal regions from the Yemen coast to southern Africa and eastward to the Caroline and Samoan islands.