Common name: Bigeye emperor

Scientific name: Monotaxis grandoculis (Forsskål, 1775)
Bigeye Emperor, Monotaxis grandoculis closeup in Andaman sea ThailandBigeye emperor (Monotaxis grandoculis) - fish. Red Sea Egypt.
Humpnose big-eye bream, Maldiveshumpnose bigeye bream silvery fish

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
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Emperor Fishes
    Lethrinidae
  6. Genus
    Humphead Wrasse
    Monotaxis
  7. Species
    Bigeye emperor
    Monotaxis grandoculis (Forsskål, 1775)
  8. Synonyms
    Lethrinus grandoculis (Forsskal, 1775)
    Lethrinus latidens Valenciennes, 1830
    Monotaxis grandocularis (Forsskål, 1775)
    Monotaxis grandoculus (Forsskål, 1775)
    Monotaxis indica Anonymous Bennett, 1830
    Pagrus heterodon Bleeker, 1854
    Sciaena 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.