Pacific Spadefish
NamePacific Spadefish
Scientific NameChaetodipterus zonatus
Common NamesPacific Spadefish, Banded Spadefish, California Spadefish
FamilyEphippidae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, Gulf of California, California to Peru
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)26
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Large Angelfish, Triggerfish (less aggressive types), Groupers (smaller species), Other Spadefish (in very large tanks)
Description
The Pacific Spadefish is a large, disc-shaped marine fish characterized by its silvery body and prominent dorsal and anal fins. Juveniles often display distinct dark vertical bands that fade with age. They are schooling fish found in coastal waters, frequently around reefs and shipwrecks.
