Popeye Catalufa
Pristigenys serrula
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity |
|---|
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Full guarantee terms →Ships Monday – Thursday for next-day arrival at your nearest FedEx Hold location — typically ready by 9 AM. We monitor every delivery.
Shipping details →
Monday – Friday 8 AM – 9 PM
Saturday 12 PM – 4 PM
Sunday 12 PM – 9 PM
Healthy, stable animals from vetted suppliers — inspected before packing, shipped overnight. Decades of experience built this model so we can deliver premium livestock at 30%+ less than you'd pay elsewhere.
| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Bold |
| Reef Safe | With Caution |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Carnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 120 gallons |
| Max Size | 12 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Popeye Catalufa (Pristigenys serrula) is a bigeye soldierfish from the eastern Pacific (Oregon to Chile) with a dusky orange-to-red body, white markings, and dark fin margins. Its oversized eyes and crevice-dwelling habits make it a natural fit for reef tanks built with caves and overhangs.
What You’ll Observe:
- Holds position near rock ledges and returns to the same “home” spot
- Becomes more active as the tank lighting dims
- Learns feeding routines and comes out quickly at mealtime
Provide shaded rockwork and a few roomy hideouts so it can pick a comfortable base. Offer meaty frozen foods in smaller pieces, and feed in a consistent area so it can join in confidently even in a busy community.
How do I confirm it is Pristigenys serrula (Pacific) and not a similar Atlantic species?
Ask for the scientific name on the invoice and compare photos; they are often mixed up in the trade.
Will it “pick” a favorite cave and stay there?
Many keepers report it chooses a ledge or cave and regularly returns to it.
Can it learn to take food from tongs or by hand?
Yes—once settled, hobbyists often report very consistent, close-range feeding behavior.
Is it normal if I do not see it much under bright daylight settings?
Yes; many owners notice it shows best during lower-light periods and around overhangs.
Does it usually accept frozen foods quickly?
Reports commonly mention success with frozen mysis or similar meaty fare after a short adjustment.
Each fish is checked for strong appetite and activity before we approve it for your tank.
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