Pugjaw Wormfish

The Pugjaw Wormfish (Cerdale floridana) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its elongated, slender body, subtle coloration blending with sandy substrates, and unique burrowing behavior. Its delicate appearance and cryptic lifestyle make it an interesting addition for aquarists who enjoy sand-dwelling species.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may display slightly more pronounced jaw features, while females and juveniles are smaller, paler, and less distinct in facial structure. They reach about 3–4 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 20 gallons, preferably with a deep sandbed.

Provide a fine sandbed for burrowing, scattered live rock for hiding, and open areas for subtle swimming. Stable water parameters are important (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid is recommended because small wormfishes can attempt to escape.

Diet should consist of tiny meaty foods such as copepods, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other microfauna, as well as finely crushed pellets suitable for small sand-dwelling fishes. With proper care, the Pugjaw Wormfish provides a fascinating, understated addition to reef or marine aquariums, particularly for those who enjoy observing cryptic, burrowing species.

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.