Origin
Native to the Indo-West Pacific, primarily the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and western Indian Ocean reefs. Found near coral slopes, drop-offs, and deep reef edges.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Dramatic color palette: smoky dark body with fine vertical stripes, electric blue fin accents, and a bright crimson tail. Graceful swimmer, often gliding calmly through open water or weaving between coral branches.

Purpose
Functions as an ornamental centerpiece in large marine tanks. Its striking looks contribute to biotope authenticity and visual depth in reef aquariums.

Importance
Highly valued by collectors for its rarity and regal patterning. Its sensitivity provides an indicator of overall tank stability and water quality.

Included Resources
Requires stable, mature reef conditions, gentle flow, and multiple hiding zones. Often shipped in stress—requires careful acclimation. Strong UV and protein skimming recommended.

Best Use Cases
Suits large, low-aggression reef or FOWLR tanks (125+ gallons). Best kept singly or as part of a bonded pair. Avoid in mixed butterflyfish setups unless tank is exceptionally large.

Conservation Context
Wild-caught from regions facing increasing reef stress. Responsible aquarists should avoid over-collection zones and support importers with sustainable sourcing practices.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Peaceful tangs (e.g., Kole or Tomini tangs)
• Fairy and flasher wrasses
• Anthias
• Gobies and blennies
• Other non-aggressive butterflyfish (if tank is large)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 24.8607° N
• Longitude: 67.0011° E
(Karachi, Pakistan – coastal reefs of the Arabian Sea)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 18.5204° N
• Longitude: 54.3678° E
(Salalah, Oman – reef slopes and deep coral habitats)