African Spadefish
NameAfrican Spadefish
Scientific NamePlatax orbicularis
Common NamesAfrican Spadefish, Orbicular Batfish, Round Batfish, Pancake Batfish
FamilyEphippidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)250
Max Size (Inches)20
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish, Triggerfish (cautiously), Groupers (cautiously), Pufferfish
Description
The African Spadefish, also known as Orbicular Batfish, is a large, disc-shaped marine fish known for its striking vertical banding as a juvenile. These fish require very large aquariums due to their significant adult size and are best kept in peaceful to semi-aggressive community tanks. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of algae, invertebrates, and zooplankton.
