Taenianotus triacanthus
| Identification | Small, laterally compressed body shaped like a leaf, with a tall sail-like dorsal fin. Occurs in many colors; the yellow form is especially prized. Sways back and forth to mimic drifting debris. |
| Maximum Length | 4 inches |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific — East Africa to Hawaii and the Galapagos |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | Yes — reef safe with corals, but will eat small fish and shrimp |
Behavior
The Yellow Leaf Fish (Leaf Scorpionfish) is a captivating slow-moving ambush predator that behaves unlike almost any other aquarium fish. It perches motionless among rocks and corals, rocking gently side to side to imitate a swaying leaf or piece of drifting algae. When unsuspecting prey wanders close, it strikes with astonishing speed. It periodically sheds its outer skin (ecdysis) to remove algae and parasites, emerging with refreshed color. It is a fascinating, personable specimen for a peaceful species or nano predator tank. It moves little and needs a calm environment with no boisterous tank mates.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivore. In the wild ambushes small fish and crustaceans. In captivity it strongly prefers live foods — live saltwater feeder shrimp, ghost shrimp, or small fish. Many specimens can be trained onto frozen mysis or silversides using a feeding stick with patience. Feed every 2-3 days.
Cautions
Venomous dorsal spines — handle only with care; a sting is painful though less severe than a lionfish. Will eat any fish or shrimp small enough to swallow, so avoid tiny tank mates like sexy shrimp or small gobies. A poor competitor for food; do not house with fast, aggressive feeders that will outcompete it. May refuse non-living food initially — be prepared to offer live prey.