Harlequin Tuskfish

Looks how to spot one

scales

The Harlequin Tuskfish has a striking pattern of about eight pairs of vertical bands in orange, blue and white along its flanks. Its most unusual feature is its bright blue, tusk-like front teeth, which become more vivid as the fish matures. Australian specimens tend to have the most intense colours.123

Personality what they are like

Juveniles can be shy and easily bullied, but adults become moderately aggressive and territorial, especially towards their own kind. They are best kept with other large, robust fish such as tangs, angelfish and small triggerfish, and should not be trusted with small invertebrates or very small fish.243

Daily activity how busy a day looks

This fish is active throughout the day and needs plenty of open swimming space along with caves or overhangs for shelter. A single adult requires a tank of at least 75 gallons (284 litres), with 120 gallons (454 litres) recommended for a single specimen.234

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Standard marine fish care applies: maintain stable water parameters with pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 25-28°C, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and low nitrates. A fish-only-with-live-rock setup is ideal. Provide plenty of visual barriers and hiding spots.436

Home where they are happiest

A spacious marine aquarium of at least 75 gallons (284 litres) for one adult, with open swimming areas and dark caves for retreat. Not reef-safe because it will eat crabs, shrimps, snails and other motile invertebrates. Best kept in a fish-only tank with live rock.236

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Carnivorous; feed a varied diet of frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp and shellfish. Live glass shrimp can help finicky eaters. Avoid relying on live foods long-term as they may cause injury or aggression.236

Company who they like around

Keep singly, as they are aggressive towards other tuskfish. They can be housed with similarly sized, robust fish like tangs, angelfish, grunts, eels, puffers and small triggerfish. Introduce the tuskfish first to reduce territorial issues. Not suitable for reef tanks with ornamental invertebrates.234

The story where it all began

The Harlequin Tuskfish has been a prized aquarium fish for decades due to its vivid colours and unusual blue teeth. It was originally described by Günther in 1867. Most specimens in the trade come from Australia or the Philippines, with Australian-caught fish being hardier and more colourful. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning all start as females and can change to males if needed.367