Common name: Yellow and blueback fusilier
General information
The Redbelly Yellowtail Fusilier, Caesio teres, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color and movement to any marine aquarium. Known for their striking blue and yellow coloration, these fish are a favorite among aquarists who appreciate schooling species. They are found in large schools in the wild and can bring a similar dynamic to the home aquarium when kept in groups.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 7.8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs open swimming space
- Diet
- Planktivore Prefers zooplankton in the wild
- Social
- School Best kept in groups of 5+
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyFusiliersCaesionidae
- GenusFusilier FishesCaesio
- SpeciesYellow and blueback fusilierCaesio teres Seale, 1906
- SynonymsCaesio pulcherrimus Smith & Smith, 1963Caesio terus Seale, 1906
Care
Yellowtail Fusiliers are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of aquarium conditions. They require a spacious tank with plenty of open swimming space to accommodate their active swimming habits. A diet of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their color and health. It's important to provide a varied diet to ensure proper nutrition.
Reproduction
In the wild, Caesio teres spawns in large aggregations, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. While breeding them in captivity is challenging, understanding their natural spawning behavior can be beneficial for potential breeding programs.
Habitat
Redbelly Yellowtail Fusiliers are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands and Tuamoto Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia and the Austral Islands. They inhabit clear lagoons and seaward reefs, often seen at depths ranging from the surface to about 50 meters.