Orbicular Batfish Platax Orbicularis

Description

Orbicular Batfish Platax Orbicularis

Overview:
The Orbicular Batfish, with its distinct round body and large, elegant fins, is a true spectacle in any marine aquarium. As juveniles, they exhibit a striking brown and yellow coloration that transitions to a more subdued silver-gray as they mature. They can grow up to 20 inches in the wild but typically remain smaller in home aquariums.

Origin:
Native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, these fish are found in lagoons and coral reefs, often swimming in schools.

Feeding:
Orbicular Batfish are omnivores with a preference for marine algae and meaty foods. Their diet in captivity should include a variety of prepared marine foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine flakes and pellets enriched with spirulina. It’s crucial to ensure a balanced diet to support their health and coloration.

Tank Mates:
While juvenile Orbicular Batfish are relatively peaceful and can be housed with a variety of reef-safe fish, their large size at maturity means they are best kept with larger, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include tangs, wrasses, and some species of angelfish. It is not advisable to keep them with very small fish or invertebrates they might mistake for food.

Aggression:
Orbicular Batfish are generally peaceful but may show territorial aggression towards their own kind or similar-shaped fish. It’s best to house them singly unless you have a very large aquarium that can accommodate a group with enough space for each individual to establish its territory.

Experience Level:
Due to their specific care requirements and potential size, Orbicular Batfish are recommended for intermediate to advanced aquarists. Successful care requires a commitment to maintaining high water quality and a spacious environment.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
• pH: 8.1 to 8.4
• Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025 SG
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 180 gallons is recommended for a single Orbicular Batfish, with ample swimming space and hiding spots. They are known to nibble on soft and hard coral, so they may not be suitable for reef tanks with delicate corals. Regular water changes and stable water conditions are crucial for their health.