Common name: Marr's fusilier
General information
The Blue and Gold Fusilier, scientifically known as Pterocaesio marri, is a strikingly vibrant fish that adds a splash of color and activity to any marine aquarium. This species is known for its elongated body, deep blue dorsal side, and bright yellow lower body and fins, which make it a visually appealing addition to the reef tank.
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 Thrives in well-oxygenated water
- Diet
- Planktivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- School Best in groups of 5+
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyFusiliersCaesionidae
- GenusFusilier FishesPterocaesio
- SpeciesMarr's fusilierPterocaesio marri Schultz, 1953
- SynonymsPterocaesio kohleri Schultz, 1953
Care
Blue and Gold Fusiliers are schooling fish that require a spacious tank to accommodate their active swimming behavior. They thrive in a well-oxygenated environment with plenty of open water for swimming and some rocky structures for refuge. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Pterocaesio marri spawns in large aggregations, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with optimal water conditions can encourage spawning behavior.
Habitat
Pterocaesio marri is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and north to southern Japan. They inhabit clear lagoon and seaward reefs, typically in midwater above the reef, at depths ranging from 5 to 60 meters.