Common name: Whitley's splitfin
General information
Whitley's Splitfin, scientifically known as Luzonichthys whitleyi, is a small and colorful anthias species that is relatively rare in the aquarium trade. This species is prized for its striking coloration and peaceful demeanor, making it a desirable addition for advanced aquarists looking to add diversity to their reef aquariums.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 7.8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers dimly lit tanks with hiding spots.
- Diet
- Planktivore Feeds on zooplankton in the wild.
- Social
- Harem Best kept in groups with more females.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusSplitfin AnthiasLuzonichthys
- SpeciesWhitley's splitfinLuzonichthys whitleyi (Smith, 1955)
- SynonymsNaurua whitleyi Smith, 1955
Care
Luzonichthys whitleyi requires a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They thrive in groups and should be kept with several individuals, preferably with one male to several females to mimic their natural social structure. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, supplemented with high-quality marine pellets or flakes, is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Luzonichthys whitleyi forms harems consisting of a dominant male and several females. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. While breeding them in captivity is challenging, maintaining a group with a proper male-to-female ratio may encourage natural spawning behavior.
Habitat
Luzonichthys whitleyi is found in the Western Pacific, particularly around the Philippines and Indonesia. They inhabit deep reef slopes and drop-offs, typically at depths ranging from 60 to 200 feet. In the aquarium, they require ample swimming space and a well-oxygenated environment to thrive.