Lookdown Fish (Selene Vomer) Captive Bred

Size: S,M

Species Name : Selene Vomer

Care Level : Intermediate

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Silver

Diet : Carnivore

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: No

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 18 inches 

Origin : Captive Bred

Family : Carangidae

Minimum Tank Size : 125+ gallons for juveniles – over 1000 gallons for adults

Lookdown Fish (Selene Vomer) is a very interesting fish with an amazing appearance that changes throughout life. These fish are known for their extremely shiny and reflective skin. 

Lookdowns present a truly singular vision: a wafer-thin laterally-compressed body with mirror-like and highly reflective tiny silver scales, high-set eyes, low-set mouth, a steep concave forehead, long dorsal and anal fin extensions, wing-like pectoral fins and a deeply forked caudal fin—all hinting at a predator designed for speed and agility. With a body less than a dime, they look like dwarfs because of their magnificent, highly elongated dorsal fin rays, which were several inches long. Adults are capable of generating loud grunts with their swim bladder and pharyngeal teeth when seriously threatened. These are large fish, growing to over 12” (30 cm) in length with some reports putting this species at 18” (45 cm).

These large predators mostly find their homes in larger fish-only tanks, over 125 gallons for juveniles and over 1000 gallons for adults. They make for impressive displays when housed in large shoals. They are natural flocks and are best kept in groups of five or more.

They are fairly peaceful animals that can be safely kept with most large (i.e. not so small as to be swallowed) tank mates. However, the type of tank setup they prefer will not be suitable for many reef-associated species. Compatible species include most vagrant, space-loving groups such as bats. Systems that include open (and preferably deep) sandy bottoms may include rays, flounders, wasps, some scorpionfish, some labiales, and some burrowing fish (suitable size). Not safe with small fish, tubeworms, crabs, or ornamental crustaceans.

The Lookdown will eat a wide variety of meaty foods. Try to transition to healthier vitamin enriched prepared food once acclimated.