Description
Pinnate Batfish (Platax pinnatus)
This charismatic species is well-known to aquarists but has been only seldom kept in the past; this has been for several reasons. The most important of these reasons is its prohibitive size. Few hobbyists maintain systems large enough to accommodate this beast. As it attains sizes of a foot and a half in length (and is quite active as an adult), the pinnate batfish requires a tank size of at least 200 gallons.
Another reason that the species has been largely ignored by aquarists is its reputation for being extremely delicate. Sadly, this reputation was well-earned, as most wild-caught specimens perished very quickly under even seemingly excellent aquarium conditions. In more recent times, however, captive-bred individuals have become available in limited quantities. These cultured specimens are strikingly hardier than wild alternatives.
Given their better ability to adapt to captivity, these pinnate batfish are great candidates for a peaceful fish-only system (they are not reef-safe). Given the very high likelihood that they survive to adulthood, it is imperative that they are provided with a very large, open living space.
This omnivore appreciates generous offerings of meaty foods but requires regular supplements of live or well-preserved macroalgae.
See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements
- Purchase Size: ~2″ (length)
- Max Size: 1.5′ (length)
- Water Parameters:~78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.0-8.4, s.g. 1.021-1.023
- Color: Dark with bright red-orange edging (silvery grey as adults).
- Reef-Safe: No
- Feeding: Omnivorous (include macroalgae)
Pinnate Batfish Species Information
The pinnate batfish is widely distributed across the Western Pacific Ocean. Juveniles in particular prefer shallow, sheltered waters.
Benefits of Aquacultured Marine Livestock
Aquacultured pinnate batfish offer a truly huge advantage over wild-caught specimens. For example, when bred and raised under captive conditions, they adjust much more easily to aquarium life. They also are less likely to carry disease. Better still, aquacultured specimens can better tolerate shipping stress. By purchasing aquacultured fish you support the aquaculture of marine organisms and help to make our hobby more sustainable!
100% Alive on Arrival (AoA) Guarantee
We guarantee that every pinnate batfish clown we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in good health. Should it arrive in any other state, we will either replace it free of charge (including shipping) or issue store credit if the total livestock loss is less than $40. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee page.
