Common name: Shortnose Batfish

General Information

The Shortnose Batfish (Ogcocephalus nasutus) is a peculiar and fascinating species that captures the attention of marine enthusiasts with its unique appearance and behavior. This bottom-dwelling fish is part of the Ogcocephalidae family, known for their flattened bodies and modified pectoral fins that resemble legs, allowing them to "walk" across the ocean floor. Native to the western Atlantic Ocean, this species is typically found in sandy or muddy substrates at depths ranging from shallow coastal waters to deeper offshore environments.

The Shortnose Batfish is not a common addition to home aquariums due to its specialized care requirements and rarity in the pet trade. However, its bizarre appearance and intriguing behavior make it a sought-after specimen for advanced aquarists and public aquariums. Its cryptic coloration, which includes shades of brown, gray, and tan, helps it blend seamlessly into its surroundings, making it an expert ambush predator.

Care

Keeping a Shortnose Batfish in captivity requires a dedicated setup that mimics its natural habitat. A spacious tank with a sandy substrate is essential, as this species spends most of its time on the bottom. The substrate should be soft enough to prevent injury to its delicate skin. Live rock can be added for additional hiding spots, but open areas are also necessary to allow the fish to "walk" and hunt.

Stable water conditions are crucial for this species, with a focus on maintaining pristine water quality. A moderate flow is ideal, as strong currents can stress the fish. Due to its sedentary nature, the Shortnose Batfish does not require a large tank, but ample space is still recommended to accommodate its unique movement and hunting behavior.

Diet and Feeding

The Shortnose Batfish is a carnivorous ambush predator that feeds on small invertebrates and fish in the wild. In captivity, it can be fed a diet of live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish or squid. Training it to accept prepared foods may take time, but patience and persistence can yield success.

Feeding should be done carefully to ensure the batfish receives enough food, as its slow and deliberate movements may make it less competitive in a community tank. Target feeding with tongs or a feeding stick can help deliver food directly to the fish.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Shortnose Batfish is a solitary and peaceful species, making it suitable for a species-only tank or as a unique addition to a community tank with other non-aggressive bottom dwellers. However, care must be taken to avoid housing it with fast or aggressive tank mates that may outcompete it for food.

This species is not reef-safe, as it may prey on small invertebrates and crustaceans. Its slow movements and preference for the substrate make it an interesting and low-maintenance tank inhabitant, provided its specific needs are met.

Health and Common Issues

The Shortnose Batfish is relatively hardy but can be prone to skin infections and injuries due to its sedentary lifestyle and delicate skin. Maintaining excellent water quality and a soft substrate can help prevent these issues. Regular observation is important to catch any signs of stress or illness early.

When selecting a Shortnose Batfish, look for individuals with intact fins, clear eyes, and no visible signs of injury or disease. Quarantining new specimens is highly recommended to ensure they are healthy before introducing them to the main tank.

Habitat

The Shortnose Batfish is found in the western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. It inhabits sandy or muddy substrates in coastal and offshore environments, often at depths of 10 to 200 meters. Its cryptic coloration and unique body shape allow it to blend into its surroundings, making it an effective ambush predator.

Replicating its natural habitat in captivity involves providing a sandy substrate, moderate water flow, and stable water conditions. While not a highly active swimmer, the Shortnose Batfish requires a tank setup that accommodates its bottom-dwelling lifestyle and unique locomotion.