Common name: Sand diver

Scientific name: Trichonotus marleyi (Smith, 1936)

General information

The Sand Diver, scientifically known as Trichonotus marleyi, is a unique and fascinating species that adds a touch of the unusual to any marine aquarium. This slender fish is characterized by its elongated body and ability to burrow into sandy substrates, making it an interesting spectacle as it darts in and out of the sand.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers sandy substrate for burrowing
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
Social
Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be territorial with similar species
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Sand Divers
    Trichonotidae
  6. Genus
    Sand Divers
    Trichonotus
  7. Species
    Sand diver
    Trichonotus marleyi (Smith, 1936)
  8. Synonyms
    Taeniolabrus marleyi Smith, 1936

Care

Caring for the Sand Diver requires an aquarium with a fine sandy bottom to accommodate their burrowing behavior. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. A varied diet of small meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive habits of Trichonotus marleyi in the home aquarium. In the wild, they are likely to spawn in the substrate, with the male guarding the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Trichonotus marleyi is found in the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around the coastal regions of South Africa. They prefer shallow, sandy areas where they can easily burrow and hide from predators.