Dogfish Orientalis

The Dogfish Orientalis, also known as the Lined Sweetlips, Oriental Sweetlips, or Oriental Dogfish, changes body color as it ages. As a juvenile, it will have a tan color ventrally and three tan "saddles" on the otherwise solid black dorsal half. As an adult, it will be silver-white with a yellow mouth and fins. Black dots and horizontal stripes, or a combination of both, will extend from head to tail, including the fins.

A 500 gallon or larger aquarium is required due to its size and eating habits. It grows at a rapid pace to almost three feet adult length, and a larger tank is needed to provide it with ample swimming room and plenty of hiding places. If placed in a reef aquarium, the Dogfish Orientalis will eat smaller crustaceans, smaller fireworms, serpent stars, small snails, and polychaete worms.

When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Once it has acclimated, most marine carnivore preparations will be acceptable.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: Juvenile Small: 1" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3": Large: 3" to 5"