Pinnate Batfish (Platax Pinnatus)

Species Name : Platax Pinnatus

Care Level : Expert Only

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Black, Silver, Brown, Yellow

Diet : Omnivorous (include macroalgae)

Reef Compatible : No

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 16-30 inches

Origin : Western Pacific Ocean

Family : Ephippidae

Minimum Tank Size : 200 gallons

Biota Pinnate Batfish (Platax Pinnatus) commonly referred to as Batfish, Butterfly-fish, Dusky Batfish, Leaf-fish, Long-finned Batfish, Pinnate Batfish, Pinnate Spadefish, Red Faced Batfish, Red-Faced Batfish, Shaded Batfish, Sunfish, Turbot , Longfin Batfish.

Platax Pinnatus - As juveniles the captive bred pinnate batfish has a deep jet black body with long, flowing fins with a vibrant fiery orange border all around. As they age that jet black fades into a dusky red and silver body. 

A very delicate fish, water quality must be perfect. Pinnatus need a fairly large aquarium. While 40 gallons will suffice for young stock, as they mature, a tank of at least 200 gallons with plenty of open space for swimming is recommended. The ideal aquarium should provide enough open space for swimming, as well as visual barriers, caves and sheds, but not so much that it interferes with free swimming.

Pinnatus are very peaceful, easy-going fish. While they will squabble with their own, they do very well with other peaceful species. Some good tankmates include, but are not limited to, all species of tangs and aquarium-suitable butterflyfish. With care, most angels are acceptable, too. Since young and juvenile batfish have fins that make irresistible targets for fin nippers like damsels, puffers, and triggers, these fish should be avoided as tankmates. Batfish should not be housed with corals as they will graze on them, and small invertebrates.

All species of Platax are omnivorous, meaning they consume both animal proteins and plant matter. This diet should be replicated as accurately as possible in captivity.When the Batfish does start taking foods, it will need to be fed small amounts, three times a day. You should feed them a meaty diet of brine shrimp, mussels, scallops and shrimp. Also ensure they have seaweed and algae to satisfy their herbivorous needs.

Size: Small: 1" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 4"; XLarge: 4"+

Note: Purchase size is a batfishes body without their long fins.