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.
| Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | Almost three feet |
| Color Change | Juvenile: tan ventral side with three tan saddles on black dorsal; Adult: silver-white with yellow mouth and fins, black dots and horizontal stripes |
| Tank Requirement | 500 gallons or larger |
| Feeding Habits | Smaller crustaceans, fireworms, serpent stars, small snails |
FAQ
What is the color change pattern of the Dogfish Orientalis as it matures?
As a juvenile, it has a tan ventral side with three tan “saddles” on the black dorsal half. As an adult, it turns silver-white with a yellow mouth and fins, and develops black dots and horizontal stripes extending from head to tail, including the fins.
What type of tank is required for this species?
A 500 gallon or larger aquarium is required due to its size and active swimming behavior.
What does the Dogfish Orientalis eat in a reef setup?
It feeds on smaller crustaceans, fireworms, serpent stars, and small snails.
Adrian Bell –
The Dogfish Orientalis is a striking fish with beautiful color changes as it grows. We’ve had it for over a year in a 600-gallon tank and it’s very active. It’s not for beginners due to the tank size, but once set up, it’s a showstopper. The feeding habits are manageable with regular small prey.
Keith Bell –
We noticed the color shift from juvenile to adult phase and it’s quite fascinating. The fish is spacious and needs a large tank, but it’s worth the investment. We provide a variety of small crustaceans and it’s very selective in feeding.
Amelia Lyman –
After installing the fish in our large tank, we were impressed by its size and movement. The black and white patterns are stunning. It’s a bit aggressive during feeding, but we’ve managed it with proper hiding spots and a consistent diet.