Striped Sweetlips

Plectorhinchus diagrammus

Identification	White to silver body with several horizontal brown-gray stripes running from head to tail in adults. Juveniles have dramatically different coloration with spots that change with age.
Maximum Length	Up to 20 inches (50 cm)
Origin	Western Pacific — Indonesia to Japan and Australia
Minimum Tank Size	180 gallons
Reef Compatible	Not recommended

Behavior

Sweetlips are highly desirable as juveniles for their dramatic spotted, wriggling patterns, but grow very large and transform significantly in color as adults. Juvenile behavior includes an exaggerated, undulating swimming motion thought to mimic toxic flatworms. A challenging but rewarding fish for large FOWLR systems.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. Feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and worms. Juveniles may be difficult to feed — offer live brine shrimp initially, transitioning to frozen mysis and chopped seafood.

Cautions

Grows very large. Juveniles need careful feeding to avoid starvation. Not reef safe as adults.