Common name: Scarlet soldierfish

General information

The Midnight Snapper, Myripristis violacea, is a striking fish species known for its deep purple to black coloration and large, reflective eyes. It is a member of the soldierfish family, Myripristidae, and is often found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species is nocturnal and tends to hide in caves or under ledges during the day, emerging at night to feed.

Care

Midnight Snappers require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding places to mimic their natural habitat. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial with their own kind, so it's best to keep them singly unless the tank is large enough to accommodate multiple territories. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh.

Reproduction

In the wild, Midnight Snappers form large aggregations to spawn, usually around the time of the full moon. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but if conditions are right, they may release gametes into the water column where fertilization occurs externally.

Habitat

Midnight Snappers are found in coral reefs and rocky outcrops, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 183 meters. They are widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific Ocean.