Sailfin Snapper

Symphorichthys spilurus

Identification	Brilliant yellow body with fine blue horizontal lines, a black bar through the eye, a dark spot near the tail, and long trailing dorsal and anal fin filaments. Also called the Threadfin or Blue-and-Gold Striped Snapper.
Maximum Length	24 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific — Western Pacific reefs
Minimum Tank Size	200+ gallons
Reef Compatibility	With caution — eats small fish and invertebrates

Behavior

The Sailfin Snapper is one of the most spectacular snappers available, prized for its vivid yellow-and-blue coloration and flowing fin filaments. Juveniles and subadults are especially colorful. It is a graceful, active swimmer that grows large and needs a spacious tank with open water and a deep sand bed to sift. It is generally peaceful toward fish too large to eat, and its beauty makes it a centerpiece for large reef or FOWLR aquariums. As it matures the color can mellow, but a healthy, well-fed specimen stays striking.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. In the wild sifts sand and hunts crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. In captivity accepts meaty foods — mysis, chopped seafood, shrimp, squid, and pellets. A deep sand bed lets it forage naturally. Feed one to two times daily.

Cautions

Grows large and needs a big tank with open swimming space and a sand bed. Will eat small fish, shrimp, and other small invertebrates. Best kept with tank mates too large to be eaten. Provide excellent water quality and strong filtration. An active swimmer; ensure open room and a secure lid.