Common name: Red-lipped Batfish

General Information

The Red-lipped Batfish (Ogcocephalus darwini) is a fascinating and unusual species that captivates aquarists and marine enthusiasts alike. Known for its striking red lips and peculiar body shape, this fish is a true oddity of the marine world. It is native to the waters around the Galápagos Islands, where it inhabits sandy or rocky bottoms at depths ranging from shallow waters to over 100 meters. Its unique appearance and behavior make it a species of great interest, though it is rarely kept in home aquariums due to its specialized care requirements.

The Red-lipped Batfish is not commonly found in the aquarium trade, largely due to its specific habitat needs and limited distribution. However, its distinctive look and quirky nature make it a favorite subject for underwater photographers and marine biologists. Its bright red lips are thought to play a role in species recognition or mating, though their exact purpose remains a topic of scientific curiosity.

Care

Keeping a Red-lipped Batfish in captivity is a challenge even for experienced aquarists. This species requires a large, species-specific tank with a sandy substrate to mimic its natural habitat. It is a benthic fish, meaning it spends most of its time on the ocean floor, using its modified pectoral fins to "walk" rather than swim. Providing ample space and a calm environment is crucial for its well-being.

Due to its deep-water origins, the Red-lipped Batfish prefers cooler water temperatures compared to typical reef species. Maintaining stable water parameters and ensuring high oxygen levels are essential. This species is best suited for public aquariums or specialized private collections rather than standard home setups.

Diet and Feeding

The Red-lipped Batfish is a carnivore with a specialized diet. In the wild, it feeds on small invertebrates and crustaceans, using its lure-like appendage (illicium) to attract prey. In captivity, it requires a diet of live or frozen foods such as shrimp, small fish, and other meaty offerings. Feeding can be challenging, as this species may not readily accept prepared foods and often requires live prey to stimulate its natural hunting instincts.

Frequent, small feedings are recommended to mimic its natural feeding behavior. Care must be taken to ensure that uneaten food is promptly removed to maintain water quality, as this species is sensitive to poor conditions.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Red-lipped Batfish is a solitary and relatively inactive species, spending most of its time resting on the substrate. It is not aggressive but may exhibit territorial behavior if housed with other benthic species. Due to its unique care requirements, it is best kept alone or with other non-aggressive, deep-water species that share similar environmental needs.

This species is not reef-safe, as it may prey on small invertebrates and crustaceans commonly found in reef tanks. Its slow-moving nature and specialized diet also make it unsuitable for community tanks with more active or competitive species.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive behavior of the Red-lipped Batfish, as it has not been successfully bred in captivity. In the wild, it is believed to spawn in deeper waters, with eggs and larvae developing in the planktonic zone. The lack of captive breeding success highlights the challenges of replicating its natural conditions and life cycle in an aquarium setting.

Habitat

The Red-lipped Batfish is endemic to the Galápagos Islands and surrounding waters, where it inhabits sandy and rocky substrates at depths of 1 to 100 meters or more. Its environment is characterized by cooler water temperatures and low light levels, reflecting its preference for deeper habitats. Replicating these conditions in captivity is essential for its health and longevity.