Common name: double lined fusilier

Scientific name: Pterocaesio digramma (Bleeker, 1864)
Black-Tip Fusilier Pterocaesio digramma
Many-lined Fusiliers (Pterocaesio digramma) in the Red Sea, Egyptグルクン

General information

The Double-lined Fusilier, scientifically known as Pterocaesio digramma, is a striking fish species that adds a splash of color and activity to any marine aquarium. This species is characterized by its elongated body, vibrant blue lines that run along its sides, and a yellowish-gold hue on the dorsal side. They are schooling fish in the wild and are known for their fast swimming and agility.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
300 liter (79 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °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
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Fusiliers
    Caesionidae
  6. Genus
    Fusilier Fishes
    Pterocaesio
  7. Species
    double lined fusilier
    Pterocaesio digramma (Bleeker, 1864)
  8. Synonyms
    Caesio diagramma Bleeker, 1864
    Caesio digramma Bleeker, 1864
    Pterocaesio diagramma (Bleeker, 1864)

Care

In the aquarium, Pterocaesio digramma requires a spacious tank to accommodate their active swimming behavior. They are best kept in groups to mimic their natural schooling behavior, which can reduce stress and promote natural activity. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health. Consistent water quality and parameters are crucial for the well-being of these fish.

Reproduction

Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare for Double-lined Fusiliers. In the wild, they are known to spawn in large groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs externally. The eggs are pelagic, drifting with the currents until they hatch.

Habitat

Pterocaesio digramma is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit reef slopes and lagoons, often seen in large schools above the reef, where they feed on zooplankton. They are typically found at depths ranging from surface waters to about 50 meters.

Aquarists should aim to replicate these conditions as closely as possible, providing plenty of open water for swimming and a reef-like environment with live rock for shelter.