Common name: Two-stick stingfish
General information
The Spotted Ghoul, scientifically known as Inimicus filamentosus, is a unique and intriguing species of fish that is part of the Synanceiidae family, which includes the venomous stonefishes. This species is known for its cryptic behavior and ability to blend into its surroundings, making it a master of camouflage. The Spotted Ghoul has a distinctive appearance with venomous spines and filamentous fin rays that it uses for both defense and to lure prey.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Venomous spines, handle with care
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May prey on small fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive to tankmates
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderScorpionfishesScorpaeniformes
- FamilyStonefishSynanceiidae
- GenusDevil ScorpionfishInimicus
- SpeciesTwo-stick stingfishInimicus filamentosus (Cuvier, 1829)
- SynonymsInimicus dactylus Cornic, 1987Pelor didactylum Regan, 1908Pelor filamentosum Cuvier, 1829Pelor filamentosus Guichenot, 1863
Care
Inimicus filamentosus requires a specialized care regimen due to its venomous nature and unique feeding habits. It is best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide a sandy substrate and ample hiding places to mimic its natural habitat. This species is a nocturnal predator, feeding on live or frozen foods such as shrimp and small fish. Caution should be exercised when handling this fish or performing tank maintenance due to its venomous spines.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Spotted Ghoul in the wild or in captivity. However, like many marine fish, they are likely to have a pelagic larval stage, where the larvae drift in the open ocean before settling to the bottom as they mature.
Habitat
The Spotted Ghoul is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to Japan and Australia. It inhabits sandy or rubble substrates in coastal reefs and lagoons, often burying itself with only its eyes and dorsal spines exposed. This behavior allows it to ambush prey and avoid predators.