Fish Index: Batfish

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Orbiculate Batfish (Platax orbicularis)

The Orbiculate Batfish or Platax orbicularis is an odd shaped saltwater fish that can be kept in an aquarium under the right conditions. Also known as the Round Batfish, Orbic Platax and the Orbic Batfish this fish has a round body accompanied by HUGE rounded fins that make this fish a great addition to any large aquarium of at least 180 gallons. This species of Batfish thrives in the following water conditions, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025.

Despite their intimidating look, the Orbiculate Batfish is very peaceful and will not harass other tankmates. Just be sure not to put them in with Puffer Fish or Triggerfish as they will nip the fins of this Batfish. You can check out this fish in an aquarium in the video below.

Reach almost 2 feet long, these fish are omnivores that should be fed feeder shrimp, scallops, snails, crabs, brine shrimp and frozen herbivore food. Feeding the Orbiculate Batfish three times a day is highly recommended. Be careful, like some Batfish they are susceptible to ich. If you have any additional information about the Orbiculate Batfish please leave us a comment below.

Red Lipped Batfish

The Red Lipped Batfish or Ogcocephalus darwini is without a doubt one of the strangest creatures in all of the oceans! As you can see from the pictures, the Red Lipped Batfish gets its name from its bright red lips. This Batfish is a poor swimmer that spends much of its time on the ocean floor scavenging for food.

The Red Lipped Batfish has the amazing ability to actually walk on its pectoral fins! That's right this is a walking fish! Talk about evolution in action! Red Lipped Batfish eat shrimps, mollusks, small fish, crabs, and worms. These fish are relatively small, only growing to a maximum length of 40cm. They also have a strange lure coming out of their heads much like the Angler Fish!

These saltwater fish are normally found in the Southeast Pacific Ocean. Check out the video below to see the Red Lipped Batfish in action along with the Frogfish...