Common name: goldband fusilier
General information
The Double-lined Fusilier, scientifically known as Pterocaesio chrysozona, is a striking fish species that adds a splash of color and activity to any marine aquarium. This species is characterized by its vibrant yellow and blue coloration, with a distinctive double line running along the length of its body. They are schooling fish, often found in large groups in the wild, which makes them an excellent choice for a spacious aquarium setup that can mimic their natural social structure.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Planktivore
- Social
- School
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyFusiliersCaesionidae
- GenusFusilier FishesPterocaesio
- Speciesgoldband fusilierPterocaesio chrysozona (Cuvier, 1830)
- SynonymsCaesio chrysozoma Cuvier, 1830Caesio chrysozonus Cuvier, 1830Caesio chrysozonus translimitanus Whitley, 1933Pristipomoides aurolineatus Day, 1868
Care
When it comes to care, the Double-lined Fusilier is a relatively hardy species, but they do require a large tank to accommodate their schooling behavior and rapid swimming habits. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended to provide ample space. They thrive in a well-oxygenated environment with strong water movement and plenty of open swimming areas. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, supplemented with high-quality marine flake or pellet food, will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Pterocaesio chrysozona spawns in groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The eggs are pelagic, meaning they float with the currents until hatching. Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with optimal water conditions may encourage spawning behavior.
Habitat
The Double-lined Fusilier is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Red Sea and the eastern coast of Africa to Samoa, and north to southern Japan. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoon waters, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 50 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with live rock for shelter and ample swimming space can help these fish feel at home.