Convicts might be coming in emaciated because they can be tricky to transition to aquariums after being wild caught. I live in Hawaii and I've tried many different sizes. I believe they forage on local macroalgae in the wild, so transitioning them to nori and other prepared foods isn't always easy. Wild caught specimens also carry a range of different parasites and diseases too, and I've had black ich come in on wild convicts and wipe out several healthy, established fish. I find the most success if there are other tangs that "teach" convicts how to eat nori in the same tank. Naso tangs take to nori quickly, and are great teachers to help convicts acclimate.
Always fun when your two are together
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! Always good rabbit hole conversations
Convicts might be coming in emaciated because they can be tricky to transition to aquariums after being wild caught. I live in Hawaii and I've tried many different sizes. I believe they forage on local macroalgae in the wild, so transitioning them to nori and other prepared foods isn't always easy. Wild caught specimens also carry a range of different parasites and diseases too, and I've had black ich come in on wild convicts and wipe out several healthy, established fish.
I find the most success if there are other tangs that "teach" convicts how to eat nori in the same tank. Naso tangs take to nori quickly, and are great teachers to help convicts acclimate.
Very true how the fish teach eachother.