Red Pygmy Waspfish (Terapon sp. “Red Pygmy Waspfish”) Care Guide:
The Red Pygmy Waspfish is a small, colorful marine species known for its bright red coloration and secretive behavior. Native to shallow reefs and rubble areas of the Indo-Pacific, it thrives in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock, hiding spots, and gentle water flow. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a single fish, with larger tanks preferable for multiple individuals. Ideal water parameters include temperatures of 74–80°F (23–27°C), pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity of 1.020–1.025. They are carnivorous ambush predators, feeding on small live or frozen meaty foods such as copepods, amphipods, and mysis shrimp. Red Pygmy Waspfish are generally peaceful with non-competitors but should be housed with caution alongside very small fish or shrimp, which may be seen as prey. They are best suited for reef or marine species-only tanks with secure crevices for hiding.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Terapon sp. “Red Pygmy Waspfish” |
| Common Name | Red Pygmy Waspfish |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific shallow reefs and rubble areas |
| Size | Up to 2 inches (5 cm) |
| Tank Size | Minimum 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 74–80°F (23–27°C) |
| pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.025 specific gravity |
| Diet | Carnivorous – copepods, amphipods, mysis shrimp |
| Temperament | Peaceful with non-competitors; ambush predator |
| Tank Setup | Live rock, crevices, moderate flow |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Compatibility | Reef-safe with larger peaceful fish; avoid tiny prey species |