Blacktip Sawbelly
NameBlacktip Sawbelly
Scientific NameHoplostethus melanopus
Common NamesBlacktip Sawbelly, Blacktip Roughy
FamilyTrachichthyidae
OriginAtlantic Ocean, Indo-Pacific
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)1000
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)35-40
pH Range7.8-8.1
Description
The Blacktip Sawbelly (*Hoplostethus melanopus*) is a deep-sea roughy characterized by its large eyes, reddish fins, and silvery body. It inhabits cold, deep waters of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific, where it preys on small crustaceans and fish. This species is not suitable for home aquariums due to its specialized deep-sea habitat requirements, making it an expert-level species for highly specialized research facilities only.
