Common name: Reticulated Leatherjacket

Scientific name: Leptoclinides reticulatus (Sluiter, 1909)
Seescheide Leptoclinides reticulatus

General information

The Reticulated Leatherjacket, Leptoclinides reticulatus, is a lesser-known but fascinating species in the marine aquarium hobby. This species belongs to the family Monacanthidae, which is characterized by having a single, retractable spine on the dorsal surface. The Reticulated Leatherjacket has a distinctive pattern of reticulated lines across its body, giving it a unique appearance that can be quite striking in a home aquarium.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
5 cm (2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers complex structures
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet with meaty foods
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Sea Squirts
    Ascidiacea
  4. Order
    Sea Squirts
    Enterogona
  5. Family
    Didemnid Tunicates
    Didemnidae
  6. Genus
    Unidentified Zoanthids
    Leptoclinides
  7. Species
    Reticulated Leatherjacket
    Leptoclinides reticulatus (Sluiter, 1909)
  8. Synonyms
    Didemnoides tigrinum Oka, 1927
    Didemnum reticulatum Sluiter, 1909
    Leptoclinides sprasus Michaelsen, 1924
    Leptoclinides tigrinum (Oka, 1927)

Care

Leptoclinides reticulatus requires a specialized care regimen due to its unique dietary and environmental needs. They are best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide a varied diet that includes small crustaceans and other meaty foods. A larger tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots is essential, as this species can be shy and may need areas to retreat to.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of the Reticulated Leatherjacket in the wild or in captivity. However, like many marine fish, they are likely to have a pelagic larval stage, where the young are dispersed by ocean currents before settling into a suitable habitat.

Habitat

The natural habitat of Leptoclinides reticulatus includes rocky reefs and seagrass beds in temperate waters. They are found in the Western Pacific, particularly around Australia and New Zealand. In the wild, they are often observed at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 50 meters.