Lemon-striped Pygmy

Lemon-striped Pygmy (Bodianus bennetti) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking lemon-yellow body with bold red striping, compact size, and rarity in the aquarium trade. Males typically display more intense coloration and may be slightly larger, while females/juveniles show softer striping and smaller overall size. They reach about 4–5 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 70–90 gallons.

Provide ample live rock with caves and hiding spots, a sandy bottom, and open swimming space, 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 meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, copepods, and high-quality pellets, with occasional variety for enrichment. With proper care, this fish makes a rare and standout centerpiece addition to the aquarium.

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.