Jackknife Fish (Equetus lanceolatus)

Quick Stats
Care Level: Moderate | Temperament: Peaceful | Color Form: Black, White | Diet: Carnivore | Reef Compatible: With Caution | Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78? F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 | Max. Size: 9″ | Family: Sciaenidae | Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons | Compatibility: View Chart

Overview
The Jackknife Fish originating from the Caribbean and is an interestingly shaped fish, with long dorsal and caudal fins. The formation of these two fins resemble a Jackknife, hence its common name. These fish are silver in color with a black barred pattern. Although they are not reef-safe, they are a wonderful fish for a saltwater fish only aquarium.

It requires a peaceful community in a 125-gallon or larger aquarium with a sandy bottom, and abundant amounts of live rock for both hiding places, and a supplemental food source. If incorporating more than one into the aquarium, be sure to add them at the same time to reduce the chances of aggression. It tends to hide during the acclimation process to the new aquarium until it feels secure. This species may consume crustaceans and other motile invertebrates in the reef aquariums.

Regular meals consisting of a variety of live items such as black worms and brine shrimp and prepared meaty items should bring it out of hiding. The Jackknife fish will comb the sandy bottom looking for worms, crustaceans, and small fish if it is hungry. It may even eat the occasional fireworm.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1″ to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 4″