Harlequin Sweetlips
NameHarlequin Sweetlips
Scientific NamePlectorhinchus chaetodonoides
Common NamesHarlequin Sweetlips, Clown Sweetlips, Spotted Sweetlips, Many-spotted Sweetlips
FamilyHaemulidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Australia, Japan, Samoa
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)28
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge Angelfish, Tangs, Triggerfish (with caution), Groupers (with caution), Lionfish, Moray Eels
Description
The Harlequin Sweetlips is a large, striking marine fish known for its dramatic color transformation from a juvenile's dark body with large white spots to an adult's lighter body covered in numerous small black spots. This predatory species requires a very spacious aquarium and a diet rich in meaty foods. Its unique appearance and size make it a captivating, albeit demanding, addition to a large FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) tank.
