Longfin Batfish (Asia Pacific)

The Longfin batfish is a large and impressive fish with huge fins. As a juvenile the fins are much larger than its body and it is taller than it is long. It has a light cream colored body with dark vertical bands in a deep chocolate. These bands extend through the eye, shoulder and rear body. As it matures it gradually grows into its fins and as an adult the fins are approximately the same size as its body. Its body changes from cream to silver and the band through its rear body disappears, but the eye and shoulder bands remain. The pelvic fins become yellow and its face becomes large and round. It can be differentiated from the similar Orbiculate batfish by having a dark blotch under its pectoral fins. Males and females are visually identical.

Batfish are large and elegant fish with very high fins, therefore they should only be housed in large, deep aquaria to give them enough room to swim comfortably. The Longfin batfish can grow to be up to 22 inches long and we recommend an aquarium of at least 220 gallons and 30 inches deep. As a small young fish it is prone to being nipped on by other fish, however as an adult it may chase and nip at other fish, especially those with a similar shape. This behaviour does not typically lead to violence and overall it is considered fairly peaceful. They are very personable and can learn to feed from their owner’s fingers.

Batfish are omnivores which may nip on many types of corals, anemones, feather dusters and sponges. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. Caves should be large enough that the batfish's fins don't touch the rocks or bottom of the aquarium. Diet should include plenty of high quality meaty items, marine algae, Spirulina, half shell clams, krill and Mysis shrimp. It is preferable to feed more than once a day.