Common name: Orangespotted soapfish
General information
The Peppermint Angelfish, scientifically known as Belonoperca pylei, is a rare and striking species of marine angelfish. It is highly sought after by aquarists due to its unique coloration and patterns. The fish is named after Dr. Richard Pyle, who discovered it at great depths in the Pacific Ocean. Its common name, 'Dr. Seuss Fish', is inspired by the whimsical stripes reminiscent of the illustrations in Dr. Seuss's books.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 22 cm (9″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live foods.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to small fish.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusFrogfishBelonoperca
- SpeciesOrangespotted soapfishBelonoperca pylei Baldwin & Smith, 1998
Care
Due to its rarity and deepwater habitat, the Peppermint Angelfish requires expert care. It is best suited for advanced aquarists who can provide a stable and well-maintained environment. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing, and the water quality must be kept at optimal levels. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, is essential for their health.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Belonoperca pylei in the wild or in captivity. Due to its rarity and the depths at which it is found, breeding in home aquariums is extremely uncommon and not well documented.
Habitat
The Peppermint Angelfish is native to the deep reefs of the Central Pacific, particularly around the Cook Islands and the Marshall Islands. It is typically found at depths ranging from 60 to 120 meters, where it inhabits steep reef slopes and caves.