Common name: Schauinsland's sea perch

General information

The Redspotted Sandperch, scientifically known as Parapercis schauinslandii, is a striking fish species appreciated by aquarists for its vibrant coloration and dynamic behavior. This species is part of the Pinguipedidae family, known for their elongated bodies and affinity for sandy substrates. The Redspotted Sandperch is characterized by its red spots and dashes along a pale to yellowish body, with males often exhibiting brighter colors than females.

Care

Caring for the Redspotted Sandperch requires an aquarium with a sandy bottom to mimic their natural habitat. They are active burrowers and will appreciate plenty of space to swim and hide. These fish are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards their own kind, so it's best to keep them singly unless the tank is large enough to support multiple territories.

Reproduction

In the wild, Redspotted Sandperch are known to spawn throughout the year, with a peak in reproductive activity during the warmer months. They exhibit a unique mating dance, where the male displays his vibrant colors to attract a female. The eggs are pelagic, meaning they float in the open water until hatching. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to the need for precise water conditions and the difficulty in raising the larval fish.

Habitat

Parapercis schauinslandii is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and sandy areas adjacent to reefs, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 70 meters. These fish are often seen perched on their pectoral fins in the sand, waiting to ambush prey or darting out to actively forage.