Harlequin Sweetlips Care Guide
Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides, the harlequin sweetlips, is a large Indo-Pacific grunt whose spotted juveniles mimic toxic flatworms.
Overview
Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides, the harlequin or clown sweetlips, is a large marine reef grunt of the family Haemulidae. FishBase records a maximum total length of 72 cm. Juveniles are brown with large creamy-white blotches and swim head-down with undulating fins; Wikipedia notes they are Batesian mimics of toxic flatworms. Adults become greyish with large dark brown spots.
Taxonomy
- Family: Haemulidae (subfamily Plectorhinchinae)
- Genus: Plectorhinchus
- Scientific name: Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides
Habitat
FishBase records it across the Indo-West Pacific from the Maldives and Cocos Islands through Sumatra to Fiji and New Caledonia, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to the Rowley Shoals. It inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoon and seaward reefs at depths of 1-30 m, with adults sheltering under ledges and in caves by day.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 1500 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness range (KB): 8-12 °dGH
- Water flow: medium
- Adult length: up to 72 cm (FishBase)
Diet
A carnivore. FishBase reports it feeds on crustaceans, mollusks and fishes at night. Its large adult size and nocturnal foraging on benthic invertebrates demand a very large system and varied meaty diet.
Compatibility
Generally peaceful toward other large fish but its size and appetite make it incompatible with small invertebrates and small fishes, which may be eaten. It is best suited to large fish-focused systems with robust, non-aggressive tankmates.
Breeding
Oviparous, with distinct pairing reported during breeding (FishBase). It is not commonly bred in captivity.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2023). FishBase notes minor commercial fisheries and commercial use in the aquarium trade.