Common name: Silverspots

General information

The Longfin Perchlet, Plectranthias longimanus, is a small and colorful member of the Serranidae family, known for its elongated fins and vibrant coloration. This species is not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as some other basslets, but it is highly prized by enthusiasts for its unique appearance and behavior.

Care

Longfin Perchlets are moderately easy to care for but require a well-established aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places. They are peaceful fish that can be kept with other non-aggressive species. Due to their small size, they should not be housed with large or predatory fish. A varied diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Plectranthias longimanus are believed to be pelagic spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. There is limited information on breeding this species in captivity, but like many marine fish, it would likely involve raising the larvae in a separate system with appropriate food and water conditions.

Habitat

Plectranthias longimanus is typically found in deep reef environments, often below recreational diving limits, which contributes to its rarity in the aquarium trade. They are known to inhabit areas with rocky substrates and crevices where they can seek refuge.

Geographically, they are distributed in the Western Pacific, with sightings around Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern Australia.