Batfish in a reef?

[rjs5134]

I'm not new to the saltwater aquarium world, but have not been involved in nearly 15 years. Alot has changed. One of my favorite fish has always been the Orbic Batfish. I recently purchased a small 2.5" batfish that has a voracious appetite. All the literature says that they are not reef safe. Their natural diet is algae, jellyfish, and brine shrimps and the like. What makes them not reef safe? Are they coral eaters?

[Ninong]

Hi rjs5134, welcome to Reefland!

I looked it up on fishbase and this is what I found: http://www.fishbase.org/Summary/Spec...me=orbicularis

Max. size: 50 cm (19.7") TL

Feed on algae, invertebrates and small fishes.


According to Robert Fenner's website http://www.wetwebmedia.com/spadfsh.htm they are fast growers. He doesn't think any of the batfishes are suitable for reef tanks.