Orbicular Batfish
Orbicular Batfish (Platax orbicularis)
The Orbiculate Batfish, also known as the Round Batfish, Orbic Platax, or Orbic Batfish, is distinguished by its round, reddish-brown body and large, rounded fins. This striking fish can reach an adult size of up to 22 inches from the tip of the dorsal fin to the tip of the anal fin.
Though peaceful and hardy, the Orbiculate Batfish requires a spacious aquarium of at least 360 gallons to accommodate its size and swimming needs. It is not well-suited for reef tanks, as it will consume a variety of sessile invertebrates, including corals and anemones. Like other Batfish species, it is prone to ich.
To encourage feeding when first introduced to the aquarium, offer live saltwater feeder shrimp. Once acclimated, provide a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and frozen herbivore preparations, feeding three times a day to ensure optimal health and growth.
**Approximate Purchase Sizes: **
– Small: 2-1/2″ to 3-1/2″
– Medium: 3-1/2″ to 5″
– Large: 5″ to 7″