Common name: black soapfish
General information
The Soapfish, scientifically known as Rypticus saponaceus, is a unique and intriguing species that adds a touch of the unusual to any marine aquarium. These fish are known for their ability to produce a toxic mucus when stressed, which can deter predators and is the origin of their common name. They have a distinctive appearance with a mottled brown and tan pattern that provides excellent camouflage against the reef.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 30 cm (1′)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers live rock for hiding
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys meaty foods, mysis
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat small fish, inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusSoapfishRypticus
- Speciesblack soapfishRypticus saponaceus (Bloch & Schneider, 1801)
- SynonymsAnthias saponaceus Bloch & Schneider, 1801Eleutheractis coriaceus Cope, 1871Rypticus coriaceus (Cope, 1871)
Care
Soapfish are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for intermediate to advanced aquarists. They require a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment to thrive. It's important to note that their toxic mucus can be harmful to tank mates if the soapfish is stressed, so careful selection of compatible species and regular monitoring is essential.
Reproduction
In the wild, soapfish are known to spawn during the evening, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. However, breeding them in captivity is quite challenging and not commonly achieved in home aquariums.
Habitat
Rypticus saponaceus is found in the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina and Bermuda to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They prefer reef environments and are often found hiding among crevices and overhangs during the day, emerging at night to feed.