Common name: midnight snapper

General information

The Midnight Snapper, Macolor macularis, is a striking fish known for its bold black and white coloration. Juveniles are characterized by their black bodies with white spots, which gradually merge and fade into the solid black coloration of adults. This species is part of the Lutjanidae family, which includes other popular snappers in the aquarium trade.

As they mature, Midnight Snappers can reach a considerable size, making them suitable for larger aquariums. They are not as commonly kept as some other snapper species, but they can be a unique and impressive addition to a spacious marine setup.

Care

Midnight Snappers require a large tank to accommodate their adult size, with plenty of open swimming space and hiding places. They are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish. It's important to maintain high water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy.

Reproduction

In the wild, Midnight Snappers form spawning aggregations and release eggs and sperm into the water column. The larvae are planktonic before settling down and growing into juveniles. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly done in home aquariums.

Habitat

This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, often found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 90 meters. Midnight Snappers are typically solitary or found in small groups, especially during spawning season.