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November 24, 2009
Marine Fish
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Pinnate Batfish
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Pinnate Batfish
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Known by several names, including Red-Stripe, Pinnatus, Shaded, Dusky, Red-Faced, Long-Finned or Red-Finned Batfish, the Pinnate can reach up to 20 inches in length. Juveniles have a striking red border on their body and fins; however, this generally fades with adulthood. The body has alternating vertical bands of brown and a silver-tan.

The Pinnate Batfish is very difficult to maintain in an aquarium, often refusing to eat. The Pinnate must be provided with a deep, 200-gallon tank and plenty of unobstructed room to swim. Unlike other batfish, the Pinnate is very shy and needs numerous hiding places. Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including corals and anemones. As with all Batfish, the Pinnate is susceptible to ich.

A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and frozen herbivore preparations should be provided. The Pinnate should be fed three times per day.

Fish Facts
Name: Pinnate Batfish (Platax pinnatus)
Family: Ephippididae
Range: Indo-Pacific
Size: Up to 20 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Set-up: Marine: Coral or rock, plants
Reef Compatible: No
Tank Conditions: 72-78°F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4
Minimum Tank Capacity: 200 gallon
Light: High
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: No specific level
Care Level: Experts only
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Picture(s): Courtesy of Drs. Foster and Smith |
Information provided courtesy of PetEducation.com

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