Old Wife Fish (Enoplosus armatus)

Quick Stats
Care Level: Moderate | Temperament: Peaceful | Color Form: Black, White | Diet: Carnivore | Reef Compatible: No | Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 64-75? F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 | Max. Size: 1′ 3″ | Venomous: Yes | Family: Enoplosidae | Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons | Compatibility: View Chart

Overview
The Old Wife Fish comes from the outer reefs of Australia, and is given its common name due to the teeth grinding noise that they make when caught by fishermen. They are an interesting shaped fish with two prominent dorsal fins, and an elongated body. Their body is silver in color and is adorned with variable black vertical stripes. This species is a rare find in the industry, and will make a great addition to the saltwater fish only aquarium.
A 70-gallon or larger aquarium, with plenty of live rock for hiding and a supplemental food source, is ideal for the Old Wife Fish. They occur in varying numbers in the wild ranging from solitary groupings to large aggregations. If incorporating more than one Old Wife to the aquarium, be sure to acclimate them to the system at the same time to reduce the possibility of aggression. The first dorsal spine is venomous, causing reactions similar to a bee sting. To treat the sting, soak the affected area in hot water (100-110? F).

The diet of the Old Wife Fish should consist of foods including chopped meats, scallops, shrimp, marine fish and dried algae.

Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2″ to 4″