Common name: Bigeye emperor
General information
The Humpnose Big-eye Bream, scientifically known as Monotaxis grandoculis, is a distinctive species of fish that is recognized for its large eyes and characteristic hump on the forehead of larger adults. This species is part of the family Lethrinidae and is often found in tropical marine environments. They are not as common in the aquarium trade as some other marine fish, but they can make interesting additions to larger fish-only or mixed-species tanks due to their peaceful nature and unique appearance.
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 easy Adapts well to captivity
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to smaller fish
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyEmperor FishesLethrinidae
- GenusHumphead WrasseMonotaxis
- SpeciesBigeye emperorMonotaxis grandoculis (Forsskål, 1775)
- SynonymsLethrinus grandoculis (Forsskal, 1775)Lethrinus latidens Valenciennes, 1830Monotaxis grandocularis (Forsskål, 1775)Monotaxis grandoculus (Forsskål, 1775)Monotaxis indica Anonymous Bennett, 1830Pagrus heterodon Bleeker, 1854Sciaena grandoculis Forsskål, 1775
Care
Monotaxis grandoculis requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other fish species, provided that tank mates are not overly aggressive or small enough to be considered prey. This species is omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods, including meaty items and vegetable matter. Consistent water quality and stable environmental parameters are crucial for their well-being.
Reproduction
In the wild, Monotaxis grandoculis exhibits a complex reproductive behavior that includes forming spawning aggregations. However, breeding this species in captivity is rare and not well-documented. Hobbyists typically do not breed this fish due to the challenges associated with rearing the larvae and the lack of commercial demand.
Habitat
The natural habitat of the Humpnose Big-eye Bream spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and adjacent sandy areas, often at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. Their preference for reef-associated habitats makes them a suitable choice for reef aquariums that can accommodate their size and dietary needs.
Geographical distribution includes areas such as the Red Sea, East Africa, the Indo-Malayan region, northern Australia, and various Pacific islands.