Batfish, belonging primarily to the families Ephippidae and Ogcocephalidae, are some of the most visually incredible, but some of the most demanding fish in the marine world. They are often divided into two groups: the tall, majestic juvenile pinnatus or orbicular batfish, and the bizarre, bottom-dwelling walking batfish (like the red-lipped batfish). Juvenile batfish are famous for their oversized, flowing fins and striking orange-and-black coloration. They have these colorations to mimic toxic flatworms as a defense mechanism. As they mature, they undergo a radical transformation, losing their “dramatic” fins and bright colors in favor of a massive, disc-like silver body.
The “incredibly challenging” reputation of batfish stems from their specialized needs and rapid growth. These fish are exceptionally fast growers. They can reach sizes of 12 to 20 inches or more, which means they can quickly outgrow even large home aquariums. They are also highly susceptible to ich and other skin parasites due to their delicate, scale-less skin. Furthermore, their diet can be difficult to manage. They are omnivores, but juveniles are often notoriously finicky eaters that require a constant supply of high-quality meaty foods and algae. Because of their size, social nature, and susceptibility to stress, they are generally recommended only for expert aquarists with massive, specialized systems.
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