Common name: Reticulated Leatherjacket
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassSea SquirtsAscidiacea
- OrderSea SquirtsEnterogona
- FamilyDidemnid TunicatesDidemnidae
- GenusUnidentified ZoanthidsLeptoclinides
- SpeciesReticulated LeatherjacketLeptoclinides reticulatus (Sluiter, 1909)
- SynonymsDidemnoides tigrinum Oka, 1927Didemnum reticulatum Sluiter, 1909Leptoclinides sprasus Michaelsen, 1924Leptoclinides 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.