Batfish belong to the Ephippididae family. The majority of the species that are available for sale in the aquarium trade are from the genus Platax. Batfish can reach a size of around 15 inches in an aquarium, and over 20 inches in the wild. Batfish are usually recognized by their elongated dorsal (top) and anal (bottom) fins when young. As the fish grow, the fins become shorter and the body becomes longer.
Batfish live in tropical and subtropical oceans throughout the world. Juvenile Batfish live in inshore waters with mangroves, floating on the surface of the water in order to mimic a floating leaf. Larger Batfish usually are found on or around coral reefs. Depending on the age of the fish, Batfish can be found in schools, or as solitary individuals. The diet of Batfish consists of invertebrates such as worms, small anemones, hydroids, and small crustaceans.
Most Batfish adapt well to the average home aquarium. Please remember that Batfish grow extremely fast in an aquarium and an adequately sized tank with plenty of swimming room must be considered. As with most other marine fish, sexual differences are not distinguishable. Due to the large adult size, the breeding of these fish in an aquarium is extremely difficult.
They are generally compatible with: Dwarf Angelfish, Large Angelfish, Anglers & Frogfish, Boxfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Filefish, Goatfish, Gobies, Grunts & Sweetlips, Hawkfish, Parrotfish, Puffers and Squirrelfish.
Caution is required with: Anthias, Basslets, Blennies, Cardinalfish, Damselfish, Eels, Hogfish, Lionfish & Scorpionfish, Pseudochromis and Tangs & Surgeons.
They are not compatible with: Batfish, Groupers, Seahorses & Pipefish, Sharks & Rays, Triggerfish and Wrasse.
