Common name: Panama porkfish

General information

The Gulf Sergeant, Anisotremus taeniatus, is a species of grunt fish commonly found in the Eastern Pacific. It is known for its distinctive black stripes on a silver or yellowish body, which can make it a visually appealing addition to a marine aquarium. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other grunts, but it can be a unique choice for aquarists looking to diversify their tank inhabitants.

Care

Gulf Sergeants are moderately easy to care for but require a spacious tank to accommodate their swimming behavior and potential growth. They are social fish that do well in groups, so consider keeping them with conspecifics or other peaceful tank mates. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including small invertebrates, algae, and prepared aquarium diets.

Reproduction

In the wild, Gulf Sergeants form large aggregations during spawning. They are not commonly bred in captivity, but understanding their natural reproductive behavior can be fascinating. They release eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally.

Habitat

Anisotremus taeniatus is typically found in shallow coastal waters, often associated with rocky or coral reefs. They can be found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 30 meters. Their natural range extends from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands.