pearl jawfish (yellowhead)

[reefman23]

I was just at my LFS...okay petco...and they have a pearl jawfish for sale. I used to be the ass. manager there, so I know the management and all that, so no need to worry. The fish has been there around 2 weeks in a tank with coral rubble sand...that real chunky stuff (dont blame petco, blame the corporate managers).

I am very interested in him...plus he is only $19.99 along with a 30% discount (I mentioned I know people there... ;-)

Anyone ever kept one of these? He would be housed in my new 20L (once it is set up). If I got him i would add more sand than I expected...a total of 2.5" to 3". Marine Fishes book states that they are prone to jumping and I planned on having an open top...this is the main downfall I see with them

Anyways, any experience or tips or advice would be appreciated.

thanks,
jesse

 

[reefman23]

Well actually, after some more brief research, I dont think this is a good option form me. This is due to the fact that these fish need more like a 5" sand bed...in a 12 1/2" tall tank, this just wouldnt work. Too bad, 'cuz these guys have one of the best personalities.

 

[dragon79]

Yeah, I believe Incysor owns or owned one, and mentioned how it requires a deep sand bed as you mention.


You mention Petco huh? I need to go with you when I'm shopping for my puppy Eddie

 

[skipm]

I have a friend with one in a 10 gallon with a couple of small seahorses and she says he is always moving around his burrow sifting sand. You definately need at least a 5" sandbed in order to keep him happy though.

 

[reefman23]

Yeah, I believe Incysor owns or owned one, and mentioned how it requires a deep sand bed as you mention.


You mention Petco huh? I need to go with you when I'm shopping for my puppy Eddie

I know more than any one person should about dog food than anybody ever should!! Still know it even though its been over a year since I got hired at HOAG hospital.

 

[drty811]

i had one in my 20L with only three inch SB. never had a problem with him not having enough sand. he had tunnels all over the tank. i had him for about six months before i crashed the tank. they are jumpers though, thats how he ended up dieing. i didnt have a cover over my fuge.

 

[r00onmac]

ive heard they can be okay with a regular sand bed but they need different sized rubble to make a burrow area... break up like 2 pounds of rock into small pieces ranging from slightly larger than sand to like 1/2" diameter and ive seen them move pieces to make a burrow.. its pretty cool.. they take them up in their mouth and move them around.