Birdmouth Wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus)

The Birdmouth Wrasse or Gomphosus caeruleus gets its name from its elongated snout which resembles that of a bird. As you can imagine this bizarre appearance along side their constant moment in an aquarium makes them a favorite pet. Many people also say that this fish looks and swims just like a dolphin which adds to their appeal.

This saltwater fish is sometimes known as the Green Birdmouth Wrasse, and is one of the over 400 different species of Wrasses in the Labridae family. This particular species is found in the Indo-Pacific and can grow to about 10" in length. Birdmouth Wrasse adult males are blueish green while females and younger males are brown.  You can check out this Wrasse in the video below...


In an aquarium the Birdmouth Wrasse should be fed a variety of foods including, mysis shrimp, krill, brineshrimp and some greens. They are considered to be peaceful, but their constant activity can annoy some cranky tankmates.  They require a rather large tank of at least 70 gallons.  

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Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus)

The Pearlscale Butterflyfish or Chaetodon xanthurus is one of the many different species of Butterflyfish in the Chaetodontidae family. This saltwater fish can be differentiate from other Butterflyfish by their large checkered scales and the black bar that runs across their eye. This fish is sometimes known as the Yellow-tailed Butterflyfish or the Philippines Chevron Butterflyfish.

Found in the Indo-Pacific, the Pearlscale Butterflyfish can grow to about 6" (150mm) in length and is quite the popular aquarium fish. They eat crustaceans, algae, coral polyps and all kinds of vegetable matter. Pearlscale Butterflyfish are generally considered to be a peaceful fish but sometimes don't get along with other Butterflyfish.  They should be kept in an aquarium of at least 50 gallons.  You can check out one in action in the video below...


If you have any additional information about the Pearlscale Butterflyfish please leave us a comment below.

Giant Lake Biwa Catfish (Silurus biwaensis)

Giant Lake Biwa Catfish (Silurus biwaensis) is a very large Catfish that is found in Japan in Lake Biwa along with the Largemouth Bass and many other species.  Also known as Biwako-ohnamazu this freshwater monster is the largest fish in Lake Biwa, weighing up to 331lbs (150kg) and growing to a length of  106" (270cm).

Tthe Giant Lake Biwa Catfish has barbel that allow them to sense their prey around them.   They are even believed to be able to predict earthquakes as seen on River Monsters.  Giant Lake Biwa Catfish are known to become much more active and therefore caught by commercial fisherman just before earthquakes.

If you have any additional information about the Biwako-ohnamazu please leave us a comment below.  

Cocinero (Caranx vinctus)

The Cocinero or Caranx vinctus is relatively small saltwater fish from the Jack Family (Carangidae). Sometimes referred to as the Barred Jack or Striped Jack, this fish is found in the tropical waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean in coastal waters.

Cocinero fish can be identified by the 8 or 9 dark stripes that run along their sides. Theses fish can grow to about 15" (38cm) in length. They are carnivores that prey on smaller fish and crustaceans.

Cocinero are considered to be a great fish to eat in South America and are served fresh, dried or salted and caught with nets and spears.  If you have any additional information about the Cocinero please leave us a comment below.