Hi Hat Drumfish

The Hi Hat Drumfish (Equetus acuminatus) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking black-and-white vertical striping, elongated dorsal fin resembling a hat plume, and graceful swimming motion.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may display more vivid striping as they mature, while females/juveniles are smaller with subtler coloration and slightly shorter dorsal extensions.

They reach about 9 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 75 gallons. Provide plenty of live rock with caves or overhangs for hiding, open swimming space, and a sandy substrate, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many species are prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of a variety of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, enriched frozen formulas, and high-quality marine pellets.

With proper care, this fish makes a standout addition to a peaceful or moderately active marine aquarium, especially in FOWLR (Fish-Only With Live Rock) systems or carefully selected reef tanks.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.