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(serranus tortugarum)
Saltwater
Also known as a Chalk Bass, it is native to the warm waters of the Caribbean. Its body is a dull purple with orange "saddle" bands (run vertically over the fish's body). This fish can alarm the unsuspecting aquarist as it likes to float in place, sometimes upside-down, or hover in place near the bottom. It will also swim upside-down.
Size: sm. 1" - 2"; averages 3/4" - 1 1/2"
No. in Tank: More than one is OK, as long as they are introduced together and have a large number of hiding places.
Tank: min. 30 gallon; min. 100 gallon if multiple numbers.
Temperament: Peaceful. Will defend its favorite hole or hiding place by chasing the intruding fish away.
Food: (Carnivore) Mainly feeds on zoo-plankton, yet needs a varied diet. Frozen preparations of chopped meaty items, mysid shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp and occasional meaty treats are good choices.
Light: None, its a deep water fish, not accustomed to bright lights.
Adaptation: Does well in a reef system, yet will rarely venture out until the bright reef lights are dimmed or turned off. Needs places to hide such as cliffs, overhangs, and rocky formations. Likes to float and swim upside-down and be in a school of fish.
Compatibility: Does well in any well-maintained aquarium and in reef systems and fish only tanks. Best to have peaceful tank-mates.
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