Livestock | Marine | Marine Fish | Sweetlips

Keeping Sweetlips in Marine Aquariums

Sweetlips are colorful and distinctive marine fish known for their large lips, striking patterns, and graceful swimming. They are generally peaceful but require spacious tanks and specific care to thrive, making them suitable for intermediate to experienced aquarists.

General Care Tips:

Sweetlips prefer stable water conditions with temperatures between 74–80°F and a pH of 8.1–8.4. They need large aquariums (at least 100 gallons) with ample swimming space and plenty of hiding spots among live rock. Good water quality and moderate flow help maintain their health.

Feeding:

Sweetlips are carnivores that primarily eat meaty foods. Their diet should include a variety of frozen or live shrimp, squid, fish fillets, and crustaceans. They may initially be shy eaters but often adapt to prepared foods over time. Feeding 1–2 times daily supports their growth and vitality.

Compatibility and Behavior:

Sweetlips are generally peaceful but can be shy or reclusive, especially when newly introduced. They do well with other large, non-aggressive fish but may intimidate smaller or timid species. Sweetlips tend to be solitary or found in small groups and prefer calm tankmates.

Popular Sweetlips Species:

Harlequin Sweetlips (Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides): Known for striking juvenile patterns and peaceful nature.

Oriental Sweetlips (Plectorhinchus vittatus): Unusual markings as a juvenile make it very attractive.

Large Size and Color Changes:

Sweetlips can grow quite large, often exceeding 12 inches (30 cm) in captivity, with some species reaching over 24 inches (60 cm). They undergo dramatic color and pattern changes as they mature—from vibrant juvenile markings to more subdued adult coloration. These changes can take several months to years and are a natural part of their growth.

Summary:

Sweetlips are beautiful and graceful marine fish that bring color and personality to large marine tanks. Their peaceful nature, changing colors, and large size require aquarists to provide spacious, stable environments and appropriate tankmates for long-term success.