LEAF SCORPIONFISH (Taenianotus triacanthus) *1.005-1.010*

 

Care

The bizarre-looking Leaf Scorpionfish is known from outer reef flats and slopes, current-swept channels, and occasionally at lagoon reefs. These benthic fish are usually solitary, but are sometimes seen in pairs, or small groups. They are found sitting virtually immobile in prominent perches amongst algae or seagrass, sporadically effecting small swaying movements that resemble that of a dead leaf being stirred by water currents, and then predating on small crustaceans and fishes that are ambushed as they venture past. The Leaf Scorpionfish makes a wonderful aquarium inhabitant, although it is not suitable for a community reef set-up; indeed, this fish is best kept singly or with several of its own kind. If tankmates are desired, ensure that they are not small enough to be eaten, and also make sure they are not kept alongside any boisterous fish or those that may not be able to resist picking at the leaflike body (e.g. butterflyfish). There should be plenty of perches created with the live rockwork, and ideally areas with cultured algaes that the fish can rest amongst. Although this species has a relatively small mouth for a scorpionfish, it is predatory and will take small fishes. It is best fed on live grass shrimp and slowly weaned onto frozen fare. Twice a month, this fish will moult, with the skin breaking off in the head region first, and it is imperative to keep water conditions at their best at all times. Prior to moulting, the fish may show less interest in food, but once complete, it will soon revert to normal behaviour and the skin colour will be brighter. The moulted skin will be slimy and transparent, and should be removed from the aquarium with a net if seen. The Leaf Scorpionfish is highly variable in colour, occurring in white, yellow, orange, brown, olive, pink, red, black, and mottled forms and may change coloration based on environment and mood. ***Take care when carrying out maintenance on the aquarium, as Leaf Scorpionfish have venomous spines. ***

Feeding

These fish may require live grass shrimp to initiate the feeding response, but can gradually be weaned onto frozen meaty foods such as Mysis shrimp, krill, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, chopped cockle/mussel/fish/shrimp. Target feed by putting the food in a net and moving it towards the fish, or by using tongs.

Breeding

This species has not been successfully bred in the home aquarium, although a number of aquarists report possible spawning behaviour.