Fish Doctor
NameFish Doctor
Scientific NameOphidion rochei
Common NamesFish Doctor, Red Cusk-eel, Roche's Cusk-eel, Snake Blenny
FamilyOphidiidae
OriginMediterranean Sea, Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Black Sea
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)68-77
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarger gobies, Non-burrowing blennies, Certain damselfish, Larger cardinalfish
Description
The Fish Doctor, scientifically known as Ophidion rochei, is a slender, eel-like marine fish characterized by its reddish-brown body with irregular white blotches and a distinctive dark spot. This nocturnal species burrows into sandy or muddy substrates, emerging to ambush small invertebrates and fish. It requires a specialized aquarium setup with a deep sand bed and is best kept with larger, peaceful tankmates.
