Red lizard Fish

Species Profile: Red Lizardfish

• Scientific Name: Synodus ulae
• Common Name: Red Lizardfish
• Adult Size: Up to 25 cm (10 inches)
• Life Expectancy: Estimated 5–7 years in the wild
• Habitat: Marine species found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Hawaiian Islands. Typically inhabits sandy or rubble substrates near coral reefs at depths of 3–90 meters.

Tank Requirements (Note: Rarely kept in home aquariums due to marine requirements and predatory behavior)

• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons (450 liters) or larger
• Ideal Temperature: 24°C – 27°C (75°F – 81°F)
• pH Range: 8.1 – 8.4
• Water Hardness: 8 – 12 dKH
• Temperament: Carnivorous and predatory — not reef-safe; may eat smaller tankmates

Diet & Nutrition

• Diet: Carnivore
• Preferred Foods: Small fish, crustaceans, and other meaty marine organisms
• Feeding Tips: Will accept live or frozen food like shrimp, silversides, or squid. May refuse pellet or flake food.

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding in Captivity: Not well documented. Very rare in the aquarium trade.
• Spawning Behavior: Little is known about the reproductive habits of Synodus ulae in captivity.

Appearance

• Coloration: Reddish to brownish body with faint mottling or bars for camouflage
• Body Shape: Long, cylindrical body with a pointed snout and sharp teeth
• Eyes: Large, forward-facing eyes adapted for ambush predation

Distinctive Features

• Ambush predator with a lizard-like appearance and swift attack reflexes
• Buries itself in sand or rubble, exposing only its eyes and snout while waiting for prey
• Not suitable for reef aquariums or tanks with small fish or invertebrates
• Rare in the aquarium trade — more commonly observed by divers or in public aquariums