Our fish in the Montequarium Discover the fascinating underwater world in our saltwater aquarium
There's a lot going on in our Montequarium – a unique swim-in saltwater aquarium! Here, you'll encounter fascinating sea creatures up close. From graceful rays to colorful schooling fish to curious batfish – each species has its own unique characteristics. Our aquarium team ensures the well-being of our animals every day and ensures optimal conditions. Want to know more about the different species? We've summarized the most important information for you here!
Round Stingray
Scientific name: Urobatis halleri
Habitat:
The round stingray originates from the Pacific Ocean, inhabiting shallow, coastal waters with sandy or muddy bottoms, ranging from California to Mexico. It thrives in warm waters and uses the sandy seabed as camouflage against predators.
Appearance:
With its round body and distinctive brown patterning, Haller’s round stingray is easy to identify. It can grow up to 58 cm in size, with its tail accounting for nearly half of its total length.
Behavior:
This stingray is a bottom-dweller, spending most of its time buried in the sand, where it searches for food or rests. Its camouflage offers protection, but it can defend itself effectively with its venomous stinger when threatened.
Diet:
Haller’s round stingray primarily feeds on small invertebrates such as crabs, shrimp, and worms, which it detects in the seabed.
Interesting Facts:
- The venomous stinger on its tail is a defense mechanism, used only in emergencies. It is generally harmless to humans unless provoked.
- This ray is a master of disguise, capable of almost completely vanishing into the sand.
Conservation Status:
Although not currently considered endangered, the round stingray's habitat faces threats from pollution and overfishing.
Cottonwick Grunt
Scientific name: Haemulon melanurum
Habitat:
The Haemulon melanurum, also known as the Blue-Striped Sweetlips or Blue-Striped Grunt, is native to the tropical western Atlantic. It inhabits coral reefs and lagoons from Florida through the Caribbean to Venezuela, favoring shallow waters near reefs.
Appearance:
This fish is easily recognized by its vibrant blue stripes on a yellow to silvery body, making it one of the most striking species in its habitat. Adults can grow up to 30 cm in length.
Behavior:
The Blue-Striped Grunt often lives in small groups and is active both day and night. During the day, it stays close to reefs for protection, while at night, it ventures out to hunt for food.
Diet:
The species primarily feeds on small invertebrates such as shrimp, crustaceans, and worms, using its acute sense of smell to locate prey hidden in crevices.
Fun Facts:
- The name "grunt" comes from the grunting sounds these fish produce using specialized muscles near their swim bladder.
- Juveniles often act as cleaner fish, removing parasites from larger species.
Conservation Status:
While the population of Haemulon melanurum remains stable, the health of the coral reefs they inhabit is under threat due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing.
Common Bluestripe Snapper
Scientific name: Lutjanus kasmira
Habitat:
The Blue-Striped Snapper (Lutjanus kasmira) inhabits tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from East Africa through the Maldives to Polynesia and Hawaii. It is commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and nearshore waters, where it swims both in schools and alone.
Appearance:
This snapper is easily recognized by its slender, elongated body adorned with vivid blue horizontal stripes on a yellowish background. Adult specimens can grow up to 40 cm in length.
Behavior:
The Blue-Striped Snapper is a sociable fish often seen in large schools. These groups provide protection from predators and make hunting for food more efficient. It is diurnal, staying near coral reefs during the day for cover.
Diet:
Lutjanus kasmira primarily feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Its agility makes it an adept hunter, often active at night to pursue prey.
Interesting Facts:
- This snapper is not only a visual delight but also plays a vital ecological role in maintaining the balance of fish populations in coral reef ecosystems.
- In certain regions, it is commercially fished but faces potential threats from environmental issues like coral bleaching.
Conservation Status:
The Blue-Striped Snapper population is currently stable. However, its habitats—particularly coral reefs—are under threat due to climate change and overfishing.
Orbicular Batfish
Scientific name: Platax orbicularis
Habitat:
The Batfish is found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. It inhabits lagoons, mangroves, and coral reefs, ranging from coastal areas to more open waters. Juvenile batfish tend to stay in sheltered areas, while adults prefer deeper waters.
Appearance:
The Batfish has a deep-bodied, laterally compressed shape, giving it a distinctive, almost circular appearance. Its silvery-gray coloration features vertical dark bands, often accompanied by a subtle yellowish sheen. Juveniles have a more triangular shape, which becomes rounder with age. Adults can reach a maximum length of about 50 cm.
Behavior:
Curious and peaceful, batfish can be found both as solitary individuals and in small groups. Juveniles often camouflage themselves as leaves or debris to evade predators, whereas adults are more likely to swim in the open.
Diet:
Batfish are omnivorous, feeding on algae, plankton, small crustaceans, and jellyfish. They adapt their diet to the availability of food in their habitat.
Interesting Facts:
- Batfish are popular ornamental fish in aquariums due to their elegant form and striking appearance.
- Juvenile batfish are masters of disguise, often mimicking leaves to avoid predators.
- Batfish are very curious, which makes them a popular subject for divers to observe.
Conservation Status:
While the batfish is not currently at risk of extinction, its habitats—especially mangroves and coral reefs—are under threat from human activity and environmental changes.
French Grunt
Scientific name: Haemulon flavolineatum
Habitat:
The French Grunt is found in the warm coastal waters of the western Atlantic, particularly in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. It prefers coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and rocky areas, where it finds shelter and food. During the day, it often forms schools in protected reef zones.
Appearance:
This fish is easily identified by its golden-yellow body and silvery horizontal stripes. Its slightly protruding mouth is characteristic of grunts. Adults can reach a length of around 30 cm.
Behavior:
The French Grunt is a social fish that travels in large schools. At night, it leaves the group to search for food alone or in small groups. It gets its name from the grunting sounds it makes using its teeth and swim bladder.
Diet:
Haemulon flavolineatum primarily feeds on small invertebrates such as crabs, snails, and worms. It forages on the seabed or among the coral.
Interesting Facts:
- The grunting sounds are used for communication within the group, especially when danger is near.
- Young French Grunts are often cleaned by cleaner fish at "cleaning stations," where parasites and dead skin are removed.
- The French Grunt plays an important role in the coral reef ecosystem, both as prey for larger fish and through its role in cleaning the seafloor.
Conservation Status:
The French Grunt is not currently threatened, but coral reef destruction and overfishing could impact its population in the long term.
Golden Trevally
Scientific name: Gnathanodon speciosus
Habitat:
The Golden Trevally is a widely distributed fish found in tropical and subtropical seas, ranging from the coasts of the Indo-Pacific to the Atlantic. It prefers lagoons, coral reefs, and open waters near the coast. Young fish often inhabit protected areas such as mangroves or seagrass meadows.
Appearance:
The Golden Trevally is easily recognizable by its bright golden-yellow color and characteristic black horizontal stripes. This distinctive coloration fades in older individuals, giving them a more silvery appearance. Its strong, streamlined body makes it a fast swimmer. It can grow up to 120 cm in length and weigh up to 15 kg.
Behavior:
Golden Trevallies are found both as solitary individuals and in small groups. Young fish often swim near larger marine creatures such as sharks or manta rays to seek protection from predators.
Diet:
The Golden Trevally primarily feeds on smaller fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. It is an opportunistic predator that catches its prey through quick strikes. Young fish also consume plankton.
Interesting Facts:
- Young fish often mimic the movements of larger marine animals to blend in and avoid predators.
- The Golden Trevally is a popular food fish and is commercially fished worldwide.
- Its speed and strength make it highly sought after by sport anglers.
Conservation Status:
Although the Golden Trevally is not considered endangered, its populations are under pressure from overfishing. The preservation of its habitats, especially coral reefs and mangroves, is crucial for its long-term sustainability.
Lane Snapper
Scientific name: Lutjanus synagris
The Lane Snapper is native to tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic, ranging from the coasts of North and South America to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. It inhabits coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and coastal sandy bottoms, and can sometimes be found in brackish water areas.
Appearance:
The Lane Snapper is easily recognized by its silvery-pink body, golden-yellow horizontal stripes, and a black spot above its lateral line. Its fins are often yellowish in color. It can reach a maximum length of about 60 cm, though it usually remains smaller.
Behavior:
Lane Snappers are social fish, often found in small groups. During the day, they tend to stay in sheltered reef areas, while at night, they forage for food. They are adaptable and can survive in a variety of habitats, making them a resilient species.
Diet:
Lane Snappers are omnivores, with a preference for animal-based food. They eat fish, crustaceans, squid, and mollusks, but also scour the seafloor for smaller prey.
Interesting Facts:
- The Lane Snapper is a popular food fish and is commercially fished in many regions.
- Juvenile fish are commonly found in coastal, vegetation-rich areas that provide protection from predators.
Conservation Status:
The population of Lane Snapper is considered stable, but intensive fishing and environmental changes could pose long-term problems.
Foxface
Scientific name: Siganus vulpinus
Habitat:
The Foxface is found in the tropical Indo-Pacific, from Southeast Asia's coasts to the coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef. It prefers lagoons, reef edges, and shallow coastal areas where it can find shelter and food.
Appearance:
This fish is easily recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white head and bright yellow body. Its face resembles that of a fox, which is how it got its name. It can grow up to 24 cm in length. Its dorsal fins have venomous spines, which it uses for defense.
Behavior:
The Foxface is a calm and peaceful reef inhabitant. It often lives in pairs or small groups, using its camouflage and cautious movements to avoid predators. When threatened, it raises its spines to deter attackers.
Diet:
Siganus vulpinus is a herbivore and primarily feeds on algae. Its preference for rapidly growing types of algae plays a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs.
Interesting Facts:
- The Foxface has venomous spines that can cause painful injuries; however, they are not life-threatening to humans unless there is direct contact.
- Its ability to integrate with other peaceful reef inhabitants makes it a popular aquarium fish.
- By selectively grazing on algae, it helps maintain the delicate balance of coral reefs.
Conservation Status:
The Foxface population is considered stable. However, its habitats are threatened by coral bleaching, pollution, and overfishing.
Silver Moony
Scientific name: Monodactylus argenteus
Habitat:
The Silver Moony is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. It inhabits estuaries, mangrove forests, and coastal reefs, where it can survive in freshwater, brackish, and saltwater environments.
Appearance:
This fish is easily recognized by its silvery, shiny body, yellowish accents on its dorsal and anal fins, and black stripes on its head. It can reach a maximum length of about 25 cm. Its laterally flattened body makes it streamlined and agile.
Behavior:
The Silver Moony is a social fish that lives in large schools. The formation of schools provides protection from predators and is a fascinating spectacle in the underwater world. It is adaptable and thrives in a variety of habitats.
Diet:
This omnivore has a diverse diet that includes algae, plankton, small crustaceans, and organic particles. Its adaptability allows it to survive in changing environments.
Interesting Facts:
- The Silver Moony is a true survivor and can easily thrive in freshwater aquariums.
- Juvenile fish prefer to stay in mangrove roots, where they find protection.
- Due to its elegant appearance and peaceful nature, it is a popular fish in public aquariums.
Conservation Status:
The Silver Moony population is considered stable; however, the destruction of mangrove forests and pollution pose potential threats.
Great Pompano
Scientific name: Trachinotus goodei
Habitat:
The Great Pompano, also known as Goode's Pompano, is native to tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic. It is commonly found along the coasts of Florida, the Caribbean, and South America, favoring shallow sandy and seagrass areas as well as coral reefs.
Appearance:
With its oval, laterally compressed body and shiny silver surface, the Great Pompano is easy to recognize. Its dorsal fin is slender and sleek, while its yellow pectoral and pelvic fins add a splash of color. It can grow up to 50 cm in length and weigh around 2 kg.
Behavior:
This fast and agile swimmer is either solitary or found in small groups. Great Pompanos are known for their ability to forage in shallow waters, often swimming close to the seabed in search of food.
Diet:
Trachinotus goodei primarily feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. Its strong teeth enable it to crack the hard shells of its prey.
Interesting Facts:
- The Great Pompano is a popular food fish, especially in the Caribbean, where its firm, white flesh is considered a delicacy.
- Its shimmering scales and elegant form make it a favorite among divers and underwater photographers.
Conservation Status:
The Great Pompano's population is currently stable, though overfishing poses a threat in some regions. Sustainable fishing practices are crucial to maintaining its numbers.
Cownose Ray
Scientific name: Rhinoptera bonasus
Habitat:
The Cow-nose Ray is found in warm, tropical, and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic, ranging from the coasts of New England to Brazil, including the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. It prefers shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and seagrass beds but can also be found in open waters.
Appearance:
With its wing-like body and distinctive, cow-nose-shaped head, the Cow-nose Ray is easily recognizable. Its upper side is brown or olive-green, while the underside is white. It can have a wingspan of up to 2 meters and weigh around 50 kilograms.
Behavior:
Cow-nose Rays are social creatures, often found in large schools. They are migratory, traveling long distances seasonally to move between warmer and cooler waters or to find food. They are well-protected by their long, whip-like tail, which can carry a venomous spine in case of danger.
Diet:
The Cow-nose Ray primarily feeds on mollusks, crabs, and snails. With its specialized, flat teeth, it crushes the shells of its prey, which it finds on the seafloor.
Interesting Facts:
- Despite their impressive spines, Cow-nose Rays are generally harmless to humans.
- They play an important role in the ecosystem by regulating the balance of bottom-dwelling species.
- Their schooling behavior creates a fascinating spectacle, often observed by divers and snorkelers.
Conservation Status:
Cow-nose Rays are not currently considered endangered, but overfishing and habitat loss could pose long-term threats to their populations.
The clownfish aquarium in the mountain forest sauna
Our Oman anemonefish, better known as clownfish, are true hiding artists! In our large Montequarium, they would usually hide in their anemones – so we've created their own home in the mountain forest sauna. Here, you can observe these lively fish up close as they swim among the protective tentacles of their anemones. The special symbiosis between clownfish and anemone is unique in nature: While the anemone provides protection for the clownfish, the clownfish keeps it clean and supplies it with nutrients. A fascinating spectacle – perfect for relaxing and marveling!
Oman Anemonefish
Scientific name: Amphiprion omanensis
Habitat:
The Oman Clownfish is endemic to the waters of the Arabian Sea, particularly along the coast of Oman. It lives in a symbiotic relationship with specific species of sea anemones, which can be found in coral reefs and rocky coastal areas.
Appearance:
This striking clownfish has an orange-brown base color, interrupted by a broad white stripe behind its head. At up to 14 cm, it is one of the larger members of the clownfish family. The fins are typically darker, offering a sharp contrast to its body.
Behavior:
Like other clownfish, the Oman Clownfish lives in close symbiosis with sea anemones. It is territorial and vigorously defends its anemone from intruders. Within the group, the largest individual is female, as clownfish are capable of changing sex.
Diet:
Oman Clownfish are omnivores. They feed on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and algae found near their anemone. The anemone provides protection from predators, which are deterred by its stinging cells.
Interesting Facts:
- The symbiotic relationship with the anemone not only protects the Oman Clownfish from predators but also provides it with access to food caught by the anemone.
- The Oman Clownfish is hard to find in the wild due to its limited geographic range.
Conservation Status:
The limited distribution and threat from habitat destruction make the Oman Clownfish vulnerable to environmental changes. Conservation measures for coral reefs in Oman are critical to its survival.