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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Nemipteridae (Whiptails, Spinecheeks)
Natural Range: Indo-Pacific Region
Depth: 66 to ? ft. Size: 6 in. Jumps: No Space: 120+ gal.
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Small fish, crustaceans, ophiuroids, worms
Natural History: The Purple Scolopsis is found in lagoons and reefs with sand or mixed sand and rubble bottoms. It is observed among sponges and soft corals. The adults are solitary while juveniles are often found in small groups.
Husbandry: The Purple Scolopsis should be housed in an aquarium with a large swimming space. The live rock should only cover about half of the tank bottom. There should be numerous hiding places provided by the live rock for this species. Live black worms or brine shrimp may be required during acclimation. A refugium helps to produce the prey species that this fish feeds on. This species generally feeds from the sand bottom, and will often wait until food falls on the sand before eating it. The aquarium must have a good lid to prevent this species from jumping out. This species is intolerant of its own kind and should be housed singly, with other peaceful species.
AKA: Double Whiptail, Blue Whiptail