Genicanthus takeuchii is one of the rarest fish in the ‘marine trade’–so rare that the video shown below is believed to be one of the only specimens in captivity and in truth, the only specimen proven to be in captivity. This fish has been said to be collected in the past, but this is the [...]
Genicanthus takeuchii is one of the rarest fish in the ‘marine trade’–so rare that the video shown below is believed to be one of the only specimens in captivity and in truth, the only specimen proven to be in captivity. This fish has been said to be collected in the past, but this is the first evidence of a captive specimen.
Endemic to Southern Japan, G. takeuchii is only found near the Ogasawara Islands and Minami Torishima (Marcus Island) where collection is prohibited. This raises some ethical questions on the specimen shown here that currently resides in Hong Kong. How it got there, we don’t know. I am told that authorities allow collection from this area ony while snorkeling, but SCUBA is prohibited. Genicanthus takeuchii does not live particularly deep, but catching this fish while snorkeling is highly improbable. Unfortunately this means the fish was most likely illegally caught, however, we cannot be certain.
We first heard rumors of this collection last year and more recently last month, but it was not the first time rumblings of this nature have occurred. It was not until seeing the video below that it was proven. The specimen is a juvenile of roughly 14cm in length.
As the video shows, juvenile G. takaeuchii have a striking leopard pattern that rivals some of the most beautiful fish in the sea. As it matures, males have equally striking patterns and grow quite large.
The specimen seen here is actually for sale at a hefty price. Think Genicanthus personatus, but tack on a bit more! Enjoy this last clip and keep an eye out for more updates on this Genicanthus takeuchii.
cover photo [fishpix]
