Porkfish (Anisotremus virginicus)

Fish in the family Haemulidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameAnisotremus virginicus

FamilyHaemulidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size9 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

Porkfish are silvery-bodied with distinctive yellow and blue horizontal stripes running the length of the body and head. They have a blunt snout and reach up to 9 inches in length, with a stocky, robust body shape typical of grunts.

Diet and feeding

Porkfish are opportunistic omnivores that feed on small crustaceans, mollusks, and detritus in the wild. In captivity, offer mysis shrimp, chopped squid, quality prepared foods, and occasional vegetable matter. Feed 1-2 times daily.

Difficulty and care for the Porkfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Western Atlantic, from Florida and Bahamas through the Caribbean to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico.

Log Porkfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Porkfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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