This is an extremely fast growing fish. I introduced one into my 55-gallon aquarium when it was about 3 inches tall. A year later, it was the size of a dinner plate, and too large for my 150-gallon aquarium. It's an interesting fish, and easy to keep, but it requires a large aquarium.
Orbiculate Batfish
(Platax orbicularis)
Please Note: Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.
Please Note: Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen.
Orbiculate Batfish
(Platax orbicularis)
Additional locales and sizes may be available!
Additional locales and sizes may be available! Email me when availableQuick Stats
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Color Form
Red, Tan, Yellow
Diet
Omnivore
Water Conditions
sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size
1' 10"
Family
Ephippididae
Minimum Tank Size
360 gallons
Compatibility
View Chart
What do these Quick Stats mean? Click here for more information
Care Level
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful
Color Form
Red, Tan, Yellow
Diet
Omnivore
Water Conditions
sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size
1' 10"
Family
Ephippididae
Minimum Tank Size
360 gallons
Compatibility
View Chart
What do these Quick Stats mean? Click here for more information
Overview
The Orbiculate Batfish is also called the Round Batfish, Orbic Platax and the Orbic Batfish. A round body of reddish brown and large round fins contribute to this fish's commanding presence. It can potentially grow to an adult size of 22 inches, measuring from the tip of the dorsal to the tip of the anal fin.
It is peaceful and hardy when provided with a deep tank of at least 360 gallons and plenty of unobstructed room to swim. Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including corals and anemones. As with all Batfish, the Orbiculate is susceptible to ich.
When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and frozen herbivore preparations will help the Orbiculate to thrive, especially when fed three times a day.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 2-1/2" to 3-1/2"; Medium: 3-1/2" to 5"; Large: 5" to 7"