Common name: blackbar soldierfish

General information

The Blackbar Soldierfish, Myripristis jacobus, is a nocturnal species known for its striking appearance and behavior. It has a distinctive black bar through the eye and vibrant red to orange body, which makes it a visually appealing addition to any marine aquarium. This species is part of the Squirrelfish family, Holocentridae, and is often found in the Western Atlantic region.

Care

Blackbar Soldierfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in captivity if provided with the right conditions. They require an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a dimly lit environment to mimic their natural habitat. These fish are not aggressive towards other tank mates but can be shy, so it's important to create a peaceful community. They feed on a variety of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish or squid.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blackbar Soldierfish are known to spawn by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. However, breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly done by hobbyists.

Habitat

Myripristis jacobus is typically found in the coral reefs and rocky substrates of the tropical Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil. They prefer to stay in crevices or under ledges during the day and come out to feed at night. In the aquarium, replicating this environment with live rock structures is beneficial for their well-being.