Buy Coral Catshark for Sale Online at Exotic Aquatic Pets Store
If you are searching for a coral catshark for sale, Exotic Aquatic Pets Store offers only the healthiest and ethically sourced specimens of this stunning species, scientifically known as Atelomycterus marmoratus. Known for their captivating marbled patterns and manageable size, coral catsharks present an excellent choice for marine aquarium enthusiasts with moderate to advanced experience.

Species Overview: Coral Catshark for Sale
The coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus) is a species of coloured catshark within the family Atelomycteridae. It is commonly found inhabiting shallow coral reefs throughout the Indo-West Pacific region, with a geographical distribution extending from Pakistan to New Guinea.
Attaining a maximum length of approximately 70 cm (28 inches), the coral catshark is characterized by its notably slender body, shortened head and tail, and two dorsal fins that are angled posteriorly. Its distinctive appearance includes numerous black and white spots covering its back, sides, and fins, which frequently coalesce into horizontal bands. Additionally, adult males possess markedly elongated and slender claspers.
Primarily reclusive and inactive during daylight hours, the coral catshark exhibits active foraging behavior at dusk and during nighttime, preying upon small, benthic invertebrates and bony fishes. Its streamlined physique enables it to navigate narrow crevices within the reef environment.
Reproduction in this oviparous species involves females depositing paired, purse-shaped egg capsules on the substrate, with the embryos hatching after an incubation period of four to six months. Known for its adaptability to captive conditions, the coral catshark has successfully bred in aquarium settings and is regarded as among the most suitable shark species for private aquarists.
Species Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Coral Catshark |
| Scientific Name | Atelomycterus marmoratus |
| Adult Size | 24–28 inches (60–71 cm) |
| Natural Range | Indo-Pacific coral reefs, primarily shallow coastal waters |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years in well-maintained aquariums |
| Temperament | Docile, nocturnal bottom-dweller |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate to Advanced |

Comprehensive Care Guide Of Our Coral Cat Shark For Sale: Housing, Feeding & Acclimating
Our coral cat shark for sale is an extraordinary investment in your marine aquarium, but ensuring its health and long-term success relies on three absolutely crucial factors: a careful acclimatization process, a proper, species-appropriate feeding plan, and a thoughtfully designed tank setup.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything needed to ensure your coral catshark thrives under your care—from selection through acclimation, feeding, habitat preparation, water quality management, and compatibility with tankmates.
Acclimatization Process Of A Coral Catshark: Step-by-Step for Stress-Free Transition
Proper acclimatization is the first and most crucial step in ensuring the health and longevity of your new coral catshark. These sharks are sensitive to abrupt environmental changes, and a gradual acclimation will significantly reduce their stress and risk of disease. Here is a comprehensive guide:
1. Prepare the Environment in Advance:
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Ensure that your aquarium has been cycled and all water parameters are stable (see habitat section below).
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Dim the lighting in the tank to minimize stress during transfer.
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Have a large, clean quarantine or acclimation container ready.
2. Temperature Equalization:
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Float the unopened shipping bag containing your coral catshark on the aquarium surface for 20–30 minutes. This allows the internal water temperature to gradually match your tank’s, preventing thermal shock.
3. Quarantine Transfer:
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Open the bag and gently empty the water and the catshark into a separate, aerated acclimation container. Avoid introducing potentially contaminated shipping water to your display tank.
4. Drip Acclimation:
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Use airline tubing to siphon water from the main aquarium to the acclimation container at a rate of 2–4 drops per second.
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Over the course of 1–2 hours, gradually double the initial water volume in the container. This lets your shark adjust to differences in salinity, pH, and other chemical parameters.
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Check temperature, pH, and salinity periodically for a close match.
5. Gentle Release:
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Using a soft, fine-mesh net, gently transfer the coral catshark to the main aquarium. Avoid using your hands, as their skin is delicate and easily damaged.
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Discard all water from the acclimation container to avoid introducing contaminants.
6. Immediate Post-Acclimation Care:
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Keep aquarium lights low for the first 24 hours.
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Monitor the catshark’s behavior—initial hiding is normal, but signs of distress include rapid breathing or erratic swimming.
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Wait until the shark appears calm and oriented before offering its first meal (usually 24 hours post-acclimation).
Diet & Feeding: Catering to a Carnivore’s Needs
Coral catsharks are obligate carnivores, requiring a varied, high-protein diet that closely mimics their natural food sources.
Natural Diet:
In the wild, coral catsharks hunt small benthic invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks, and bony fishes, especially during dusk and nighttime.
In Captivity:
| Food Type | Frequency | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh/frozen shrimp | 2–3 times per week | Remove shells to prevent injury |
| Squid | 1–2 times per week | Slice into bite-sized strips |
| Marine fish fillets | 1–2 times per week | Avoid oily fish; cut into pieces |
| Mussels, clams | 1–2 times per week | Serve whole or chopped for enrichment |
| Live crustaceans | 1–2 times per month | Good for mental stimulation; check legality |
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Juveniles: Feed every 1–2 days in small portions.
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Adults: Feed every 2–3 days, appropriate to the shark’s size.
Feeding Techniques:
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Feed at dusk or in the evening, aligning with their natural nocturnal habits.
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Place food directly on the sandbed or use feeding tongs to avoid aggressive tankmates stealing food.
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Remove leftover food after 15–30 minutes to maintain water quality.
Nutritional Supplementation:
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Periodically soak food in marine-specific vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure nutritional completeness.
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Variety in diet helps prevent deficiencies and stimulates active foraging.
Tank Setup & Habitat: Creating a Safe & Natural Home for Your Coral Catshark
Properly setting up the tank and habitat for your coral catshark is essential to support its health, natural behavior, and well-being. Here is a detailed breakdown of key elements for creating an ideal home:
Tank Size & Layout
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Minimum Size: A full-grown coral catshark (up to 28 inches) requires at least a 300- to 350-gallon aquarium as a bare minimum. For optimal health and comfort, larger tanks around 450 gallons or more are highly recommended.
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Dimensions: The tank should be long and wide rather than tall, allowing ample horizontal swimming space and easy turning room. A footprint of about 6 to 8 feet in length and 3 to 4 feet in width is ideal.
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Multiple Sharks: If you plan to keep more than one coral catshark, increase tank volume accordingly (at least 480 gallons for two sharks) to reduce territorial aggression.
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Open Space: Maintain at least 60% of the tank as unobstructed sandy bottom to mimic natural reef runways and provide plenty of room for active foraging and swimming.
Recommended Water Parameters for Coral Catshark
Maintaining optimal and stable water conditions is essential for the health and longevity of your coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus). These sharks are sensitive to changes in water quality, making regular monitoring and consistency a top priority.
| Parameter | Ideal Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F (22–26°C) | Prevents stress and metabolic issues |
| Salinity | 1.023–1.025 SG | Mimics natural marine conditions |
| pH | 8.0–8.4 | Slightly alkaline and stable environment |
| Ammonia | 0 ppm | Toxic at any detectable level, must be undetectable |
| Nitrite | 0 ppm | Toxic and should remain at zero |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm | Minimizes risk of stress, illness, and algae issues |
| Oxygenation | High (fully saturated) | Ensures proper respiration for active, predatory sharks |
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Testing Frequency: Check all parameters at least 2–3 times per week, especially after feedings, water changes, or adding new livestock.
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Adjustment: Make changes to water chemistry gradually to avoid sudden shock.
Substrate & Décor
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Substrate: Use fine marine sand, 1–2 inches deep, to replicate their natural sandy reef environment. Avoid gravel or sharp substrate that could damage their delicate underbellies.
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Décor: Provide smooth rocks, large caves, and PVC pipes as hiding and resting sites. Coral catsharks are nocturnal and prefer sheltered retreats during daytime. Ensure décor edges are smooth to prevent injury.
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Territory: Place shelters near tank sides or corners to create secure daytime hiding areas, reducing stress.
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Tank Cover: A heavy, tight-fitting lid is crucial as coral catsharks can leap out of the tank if startled.
Filtration & Water Quality
Coral catsharks are carnivores that produce significant waste, so robust and redundant filtration is critical to a healthy environment.
Filtration System Essentials:
| Filtration Type | Purpose | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Removes solids, debris, and uneaten food | Use filter socks or pads, clean or replace weekly |
| Biological | Converts ammonia and nitrite via beneficial bacteria | Maintain live rock, bio-media; avoid overdosing chemicals |
| Chemical | Removes dissolved organics/toxins (activated carbon) | Replace carbon monthly or as indicated |
| Protein Skimmer | Removes dissolved organic waste before breakdown | Use a skimmer rated for at least 1.5x tank volume |
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Water Changes: Replace 10–20% of the tank water weekly or biweekly to dilute accumulations of nitrate and replenish trace minerals.
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Oxygenation: Enhance water movement with air stones, wave makers, or powerheads to maintain high dissolved oxygen levels.
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Circulation: Moderate water flow simulates natural conditions—avoid strong jets at the substrate to prevent sand disturbances and shark stress.
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Maintenance: Rinse filtration media with tank water (never tap water) during each water change to preserve beneficial bacteria.
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Tip: Install redundant backup equipment (heaters, pumps, power supplies) whenever possible for uninterrupted operation.
Lighting for Coral Catshark
Coral catsharks are naturally crepuscular and nocturnal, adapted to dim reef environments.
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Lighting Intensity: Moderate to low; avoid high-intensity reef lighting which can cause undue stress.
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Photoperiod: Simulate natural day/night cycles with 10–12 hours of light per day, followed by darkness.
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Type: Use programmable LED or T5 aquarium fixtures with adjustable brightness.
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Shade: Incorporate overhangs, caves, or decor to create shaded retreats for daytime resting.
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Acclimation: When introducing a new light source or making changes, do so gradually to prevent startling or stressing your shark.
Proper lighting supports natural behavioral patterns, reduces stress, and allows you to better observe your coral catshark’s unique appearance and habits.
Tankmates & Compatibility: Creating a Balanced and Safe Community
Careful planning of tankmates is essential when introducing a coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus) to your marine aquarium. The goal is to curate a harmonious aquatic environment where both your coral catshark and its tank companions can thrive, minimizing stress, aggression, and predation.
Understanding Coral Catshark Behavior
Coral catsharks are generally docile, bottom-dwelling, and nocturnally active. While not inherently aggressive toward similarly sized or larger fish, they are opportunistic predators that may prey on small, slow, or bottom-dwelling species. Their reclusive tendencies during the day mean they prefer well-structured habitats with plenty of hiding options, and they are typically less interactive with tankmates during daylight hours. Proper tankmate selection relies on understanding these behavioral patterns.
Suitable Tankmates
When planning tank companions for your coral catshark, prioritize species that are:
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Large enough not to be seen as prey (typically over 6–8 inches as adults)
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Peaceful or semi-peaceful, and unlikely to provoke or outcompete the catshark for food
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Adapted to similar water parameters and accustomed to marine tank conditions
Recommended Tankmates Table
| Species/Group | Compatibility Notes |
|---|---|
| Large Tangs & Surgeonfish | Active in upper/mid levels, peaceful, rarely engage catshark |
| Large Angelfish | Only gentle, non-nippy species; choose with care |
| Large Groupers (docile) | Calm, not predatory; monitor size disparities |
| Butterflyfish | Mild, non-aggressive, unlikely to feed on catshark |
| Rays (e.g., Cortez, Blue Spot) | Only in sufficiently spacious tanks; similar care requirements |
| Other Catsharks | Possible in very large tanks (500+ gallons); avoid multiple males |
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Co-introduce new species or rearrange décor to disrupt established territories and minimize displays of dominance.
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Monitor new introductions closely for at least one week for signs of aggression or stress.
Species to Avoid: Protecting Your Coral Catshark
Certain fish and invertebrates are unsuitable as tankmates, either because they could be preyed upon by your shark, may harass or injure the shark, or because they may compete aggressively for food and territory.
Do Not House with the Following:
| Species/Type | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Small Fish (gobies, damsels) | Will be chased and eaten |
| Shrimp, Crabs, Other Inverts | Natural prey—will likely be hunted and consumed |
| Aggressive Triggers, Puffers, Wrasses | May nip fins, stress, or injure the catshark |
| Fast Swimming Fish | Outcompete the catshark for food, cause stress |
| Large Predatory Fish/Eels | May attack or outcompete coral catshark for territory or food |
| Multiple Large Male Catsharks | Territorial disputes, especially without ample space |
| Reef Invertebrates (corals, clams) | May be damaged or eaten during nocturnal foraging |
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Small Tankmates: Any creature small enough to fit in a coral catshark’s mouth is potential prey.
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Aggressive & Territorial Species: Such fish may cause chronic stress, impacting health and appetite.
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Reef Invertebrates: Coral catsharks are not reef-safe and may uproot, consume, or disturb corals and clams.
Practical Compatibility & Community Management
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Introduce all tankmates before or at the same time as the coral catshark to lessen the likelihood of territorial aggression.
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Rearrange rocks and caves prior to introducing new fish; this breaks up established territories and aids in smoother integration.
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Observe tank behaviors daily—early signs of aggression, uneaten food, or injury warrant immediate intervention.
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If issues arise, promptly rehome unsuitable species to prevent stress or losses.
Building a compatible aquatic community around your coral catshark demands careful species selection and ongoing monitoring. Prioritize robust, large, non-aggressive fish, avoid small or delicate species, and ensure tank space supports all inhabitants. This thoughtful planning leads to a peaceful, thriving marine display and a healthy, well-adjusted coral catshark.
Why Buy Your Coral Catshark for Sale from Exotic Aquatic Pets Store?
Choosing Exotic Aquatic Pets Store as your source for a coral catshark offers you peace of mind, quality, and expertise throughout every step of your exotic marine journey. Here’s why discerning aquarists trust us over the competition:
1. Ethically Sourced, Healthy Specimens
Each coral catshark for sale is either responsibly captive-bred or ethically collected from sustainable populations, ensuring both legal compliance and minimal impact on natural ecosystems. All specimens undergo stringent health assessments and a comprehensive quarantine process before shipment, greatly reducing the risks of disease and acclimation stress upon arrival.
2. Expert Care Guidance & Ongoing Support
Your purchase is backed by clear, tailored care instructions developed specifically for Atelomycterus marmoratus. Our team of expert marine aquarists provides personalized support for acclimation, nutrition, tank setup, water quality management, and compatibility issues. Whether you’re an intermediate aquarist or a seasoned marine keeper, you have access to lifetime guidance for your coral catshark’s well-being.
3. Premium Shipping & Safe Arrival Guarantee
We use industry-leading shipping methods: each coral catshark is sent in oxygenated, insulated containers that maintain optimal conditions throughout transit. Detailed arrival and acclimation instructions are supplied with every delivery, ensuring you can confidently integrate your new shark with minimal risk.
4. Customer Satisfaction & Guaranteed Value
Transparent pricing, documented health guarantees, and thorough legal compliance documentation accompany every sale. Our reputation is built on attentive customer care and thousands of satisfied aquarists who value not just the quality of our specimens, but also our ongoing commitment to their success.
5. Confidence in Every Investment
Purchasing a coral catshark from Exotic Aquatic Pets Store means more than acquiring a beautiful marine animal. You’re investing in professional expertise, proven support, and healthy husbandry practices—ensuring your new shark thrives as a captivating centerpiece in your marine display.
In Summary
When you select a coral catshark for sale from Exotic Aquatic Pets Store, you receive a healthy, vibrant specimen and the dedicated support needed for long-term marine aquarium success. Experience the difference of partnering with specialists who care deeply about the welfare of your aquatic pets and your satisfaction as a valued customer.
Frequently Asked Questions On Coral Cat Sharks for Sale
Below are some frequently asked questions related to Coralcat Sharks for Sale. These questions highlight key considerations for anyone interested in purchasing a Coralcat Shark, ensuring that potential owners are well-informed about their care requirements and habitat needs.
1. What is a coral catshark and is it suitable for home aquariums?
Answer:
The coral catshark (Atelomycterus marmoratus) is a small, slender shark species native to Indo-Pacific coral reefs. With a distinctive marbled pattern and a maximum size of about 24–28 inches, it is manageable for advanced home marine aquarists. This species is suitable for large, well-maintained marine aquariums that mimic its natural environment, especially those with ample swimming space and excellent water quality.
2. What tank size is required for a coral catshark?
Answer:
A coral catshark requires a minimum tank size of 300 gallons (1,135 liters) for a single adult to provide ample swimming room and a naturalistic environment. Tanks should be long and wide to accommodate their horizontal swimming style, with a footprint roughly 6–8 feet in length and 3–4 feet in width. Larger tanks of 450 gallons or more are recommended to ensure comfort and promote healthy behavior. If housing multiple sharks, increase the tank volume accordingly (at least 480 gallons for two).
3. How should I acclimate my new coral catshark to its aquarium?
Answer:
Acclimation must be slow and careful to minimize stress:
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Float the sealed shipping bag on the display tank surface for 20–30 minutes to equalize temperature.
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Transfer the shark to an aerated quarantine container, avoiding adding transport water to the tank.
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Use drip acclimation to slowly introduce tank water over 1–2 hours (at 2–4 drops per second).
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Gently net the shark into the aquarium—avoid hand contact.
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Keep tank lights dimmed for at least 24 hours post-transfer and monitor behavior before feeding.
This gradual process helps prevent shock and ensures a smooth transition.
4. What diet and feeding schedule are ideal for coral catsharks?
Answer:
Coral catsharks are obligate carnivores. A varied, protein-rich diet mimics their natural nocturnal foraging:
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Feed fresh or frozen shrimp (without shells) 2–3 times a week.
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Offer squid slices 1–2 times weekly.
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Provide marine fish fillets like smelt or silversides 1–2 times per week.
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Include mussels or clams occasionally for enrichment.
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Live crustaceans can be given 1–2 times monthly for mental stimulation (if legal).
Juveniles require feeding every 1–2 days, adults every 2–3 days. Feed at dusk or nighttime, placing food on the sandbed to encourage natural foraging.
5. What is the recommended tank setup and habitat for a coral catshark?
Answer:
An ideal habitat includes:
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Tank size & layout: Minimum 300 gallons, long and wide shape.
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Substrate: Fine marine sand, 1–2 inches deep, avoiding gravel or sharp materials.
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Décor: Large smooth rocks, caves, and PVC pipes for daytime hiding.
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Tank cover: Heavy, escape-proof lids to prevent jumping.
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Open space: At least 60% open sandy bottom for swimming.
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Water flow & filtration: Moderate flow to simulate natural currents; advanced mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration with a protein skimmer rated for 1.5× tank volume.
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Lighting: Moderate to low intensity, with 10–12 hour photoperiod and shaded retreat spaces.
Maintaining stable water parameters and providing sufficient hiding places ensures the coral catshark feels secure and healthy.
6. What are the ideal water parameters for coral catsharks?
Answer:
| Parameter | Ideal Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F (22–26°C) | Prevents stress and metabolic issues |
| Salinity | 1.023–1.025 SG | Simulates natural seawater |
| pH | 8.0–8.4 | Slightly alkaline and stable |
| Ammonia | 0 ppm | Toxic; must be undetectable |
| Nitrite | 0 ppm | Toxic; must be absent |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm | Prevents stress and algae issues |
| Oxygenation | High | Supports active respiration |
Frequent testing (2–3 times weekly) and gradual adjustments maintain a healthy aquatic environment.
7. What filtration and water quality management do coral catsharks require?
Answer:
Due to their carnivorous diet and waste production, coral catsharks need robust filtration:
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Mechanical filtration: Removes solids and uneaten food; filter media cleaned or replaced weekly.
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Biological filtration: Supports bacteria converting toxic ammonia/nitrite to nitrates; maintain live rock and bio-media carefully.
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Chemical filtration: Activated carbon or resins remove dissolved organics; replaced monthly.
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Protein skimmer: Essential for removing dissolved organics before breakdown; should be rated for at least 1.5 times tank volume.
Regular 10–20% water changes every 1–2 weeks help maintain water quality. Additional aeration (air stones, powerheads) ensures high oxygen levels. Moderate water flow mimics reef currents without stressing the shark.
8. What fish and marine species are compatible tankmates for coral catsharks?
Answer:
Suitable tankmates are medium to large peaceful marine species that won’t be preyed upon or stress the coral catshark:
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Large tangs and surgeonfish (peaceful, active swimmers).
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Large, non-aggressive angelfish.
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Docile groupers.
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Butterflyfish.
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Large rays in sufficiently large tanks.
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Other coral catsharks (in tanks larger than 500 gallons, avoiding multiple males).
Introduce tankmates before or simultaneously with the catshark to reduce territorial issues. Provide plenty of hiding places and open swim spaces for all.
9. Which species should be avoided when keeping coral catsharks?
Answer:
| Unsuitable Species | Reason |
|---|---|
| Small fish (gobies, damsels) | Viewed as prey and will be eaten |
| Shrimp, crabs, other inverts | Natural prey, easily consumed |
| Aggressive fishes (triggers, puffers, some wrasses) | May nip fins or harass the catshark |
| Fast-swimming species | Outcompete catshark for food, create stress |
| Large predatory fish/eels | Can threaten or harm the catshark |
| Multiple male catsharks | Territorial disputes without ample space |
| Reef invertebrates (corals, clams) | Likely to be eaten or disturbed |
Avoiding these ensures a peaceful, safe environment for your coral catshark and other tank inhabitants.
10. Where can I buy a healthy coral catshark, and how do I ensure it is ethically sourced?
Answer:
Acquire your coral catshark from reputable aquatic specialists such as Exotic Aquatic Pets Store, where specimens are ethically sourced—either captive-bred or responsibly collected in compliance with conservation laws. Reputable sellers provide health guarantees, quarantine procedures, shipment in oxygenated packaging, and expert care guidance. Purchasing from trusted sources ensures the welfare of wild populations and increases your pet’s survival and well-being.
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