More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 700 litres / 184.92 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 23.0cm / 9.06inches |
| 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
Pareques acuminatus, commonly known as High-hat, is a member of the Sciaenidae family, characterized by their communication through water noises and foraging behavior in the sand by digging with their snout. These fish are typically nocturnal, hiding during the day and actively hunting at night.
Aquarium Suitability
High-hats are suitable for aquariums with caution, as they are docile but can be threatened by aggressive tank mates due to their shy nature. They prefer to be kept in pairs if introduced simultaneously, require good hiding spots such as live rocks, and thrive in tanks with an established population of microorganisms for food supply.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
This species has average hardiness and can be delicate when young, acclimating best to aquarium conditions at a juvenile stage. They are sensitive to transportation stress and acclimatization and should not be disturbed during acclimation. High-hats are slow eaters and require live food initially, such as zooplankton or small living shrimps, which can be a challenge if housed with faster-eating tank mates.
Reef Suitability
High-hats are considered reef-safe with caution due to their foraging behavior that may disturb the sand bed and potential threat towards small crustaceans like shrimps and crabs in a reef environment.
Aquarium Setup
Setting up a tank for High-hats should include a minimum tank size of 700 liters, adequate hiding places like live rocks, and a well-established microorganism population. Maintaining dim lighting during the day to mimic their nocturnal activity is recommended, with water conditions kept within pH range of 8.1-8.4, salinity between 1.020-1.025, and a temperature of 22.2-25.6°C.
Behaviour
High-hats exhibit shy and docile behavior, tending to hide initially when introduced to a new environment. They are most active at night and prefer a peaceful tank setup to avoid competition during feeding time.
Feeding and Diet
In captivity, High-hats feed on larger and small crustaceans, zooplankton, and various invertebrates. They have a preference for live food initially but can adapt to frozen options like mysis or artemia over time.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Western Atlantic from North Carolina, USA, to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, High-hats are commonly found in the Mexican Gulf area. They inhabit sandy areas where they forage for food and communicate through water noises within their natural habitat.