Common name: Atlantic spadefish

General information

The Atlantic Spadefish, scientifically known as Chaetodipterus faber, is a popular species among advanced marine aquarists. Recognizable by its silver-gray body and black bands, this fish adds a striking visual appeal to large marine aquariums. In the wild, they are often found in schools, navigating through the water column with a graceful, almost angelfish-like appearance.

Despite their angelic looks, spadefish are not related to angelfish but belong to the family Ephippidae. They are known for their hardiness and adaptability, which makes them a rewarding challenge for those with the capacity to house them properly.

Care

Atlantic Spadefish require a spacious tank due to their size and active swimming behavior. They can grow up to 60 centimeters (2 feet) in length, necessitating an aquarium of several hundred gallons. These fish thrive in well-filtered systems with strong water movement and plenty of open space for swimming.

Their diet in captivity should mimic their natural omnivorous feeding habits, including a variety of meaty foods and plant matter. Regular feeding with high-quality pellets, frozen foods, and fresh vegetables will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Atlantic Spadefish are known to spawn in large groups during the summer months. However, breeding them in captivity is quite challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists. Their larval stage is planktonic, which requires specialized rearing conditions not typically available in home aquariums.

Habitat

Native to the western Atlantic Ocean, the Atlantic Spadefish is commonly found from the coast of Massachusetts, USA, to the Gulf of Mexico and Brazil. They inhabit a range of marine environments, including coastal waters, estuaries, and occasionally venturing into brackish conditions. Juveniles often seek shelter among mangroves or in the protection of floating debris, while adults are more commonly associated with reefs and wrecks.