Candy Cane Hogfish - Shrimpicide

bevo5 · Jan 25, 2016

While doing a water change today I became fixated on a cleaner shrimp that just hasn't come out of a hiding spot at all since I got him. I just couldn't figure it out.

So I'm watching him and trying to sort out if something bad got in the water and then the problem presented itself in the form a candy cane hogfish that straight up murdered the shrimp in front of my eyes. Just swept in and took his head off. That'll do it.

dang thing says 'reef fish' with the caveat of 'might take a liking to ornamental shrimp.' Well crap.

Reef safe doesn't always mean reef safe I guess. That's a $24 lesson.

eatbreakfast · Jan 25, 2016

Where are they listed as reef safe?

Not only will they eat motile inverts, but are also aggressive towards wrasses and new fish.

bevo5 · Jan 25, 2016

Well I admit I didn't do a ton of research but a quick Google search came with live aquaria listing it as reef safe with the shrimp detail. Other people seem to have had success and no clear "not reef safe" type responses like most angels etc.

I'm adding some fish today. If he causes trouble I'll have to figure out a way to get him out.

SantaMonicaHelp · Jan 25, 2016

bevo5 said:
Just swept in and took his head off.

Oh awaww man!!! That was rough!!! Like a really tough!!!

bevo5 said:
I'm adding some fish today. If he causes trouble I'll have to figure out a way to get him out.

Let us know what's going on, ok? And thanks for sharing experience!

bevo5 · Jan 25, 2016

Yeah it was kind of hilariously brutal. Like - he waited until I was watching to take care of business. But all the fish got a little fresh meat afterwards so I guess it's not a total loss. Circle of life.

Added a new fish today and he doesn't seem to care. The white tail tang, however, is acting a fool - but hopefully they'll just work it all out and settle down.