Spotted Sweetlips
The Spotted Sweetlips, also known as the Clown Sweetlips or Harlequin Sweetlips, changes color as it matures. As a juvenile, it has a brown base covered with large white dots with darker margins. As an adult, the body color changes to white with black dots.
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 in length. It needs a larger tank to provide it with ample swimming room and plenty of hiding places. If placed in a reef aquarium, the Spotted Sweetlips 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, it can be fed a variety of marine foods.
| Size | Adult Length |
|---|---|
| Maximum Growth | Almost three feet |
| Water Type | Saltwater |
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 gallons or larger |
FAQ
What is the color change pattern of the Spotted Sweetlips as it matures?
As a juvenile, it has a brown base with large white dots and darker margins. As an adult, the body color changes to white with black dots.
What kind of food does the Spotted Sweetlips eat in a reef aquarium?
It eats smaller crustaceans, smaller fireworms, serpent stars, small snails, and polychaete worms.
What should be used to feed the Spotted Sweetlips when first introduced to the aquarium?
Live saltwater feeder shrimp should be used to entice the fish to eat initially.
Zoe Mills –
The Spotted Sweetlips is a striking fish with a beautiful color change from juvenile to adult. It’s a great centerpiece for a large saltwater tank. Once acclimated, it eats regularly and shows no aggression toward other fish. Requires a very large tank, but worth the space.
Chloe Hardacre –
This fish is impressive in size and looks stunning in a 500-gallon tank. It takes some time to adjust to feeding, but once it starts eating, it’s a reliable eater. I noticed the color shift from brown with white spots to white with black dots over several months.
Dan Clark –
I’ve had the Spotted Sweetlips for over a year now. It’s active and peaceful in a large reef setup. It consumes small invertebrates without harming the coral. The only downside is the tank size requirement, but it’s well worth it for the visual impact.