Orbicular Batfish

The Orbicular Batfish is a majestic and strikingly disc-shaped species that has captivated aquarists with its dramatic appearance and gentle demeanor. Juveniles are particularly remarkable, with extremely elongated dorsal and anal fins that give them an almost perfectly round silhouette and a rich brown to orange coloration often accented with dark vertical bars. As they mature, the fins become proportionally shorter, the body takes on a more silvery-gray hue with subtle dark banding, and the fish develops a commanding presence in any large aquarium. Adults can reach an impressive 20 inches in diameter.

In the wild, Orbicular Batfish are found in lagoons, sheltered bays, and around shipwrecks and artificial structures throughout the Indo-Pacific. Juveniles are frequently found drifting among mangrove roots and floating debris, where their leaf-like appearance provides camouflage from predators. Adults form small groups in deeper water near steep reef walls and channel entrances, where they feed on algae, small invertebrates, and jellyfish. Their willingness to approach divers and their inquisitive nature make them favorites among underwater photographers.

The Orbicular Batfish requires a very large aquarium of at least 300 gallons due to its substantial adult size and active swimming nature. It is considered reef-compatible with caution, as it may consume soft corals, anemones, and certain invertebrates, particularly when hungry. Despite this, many aquarists successfully keep them in carefully managed reef systems. The Orbicular Batfish is a hardy, personable species that adapts well to captivity, readily accepting a wide range of foods and often becoming the most interactive fish in the tank.