Sea Moth (Eurypegasus draconis)

The Sea Moth, also known as the Dragon Sea Moth, is a unique, bottom-dwelling fish with an armor-like exoskeleton and delicate, wing-like pectoral fins. This species is best suited for experienced aquarists, as it has specialized care requirements and a unique way of swimming close to the substrate. With its slow-moving behavior and intricate patterns, the Sea Moth adds a touch of intrigue to any marine tank. This fish requires an open sandy bottom, with plenty of space to glide along while foraging.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 5 inches.
• Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; requires a large, open sandy substrate and minimal rockwork to provide ample space for bottom movement.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small crustaceans and benthic invertebrates. In captivity, it can be fed live or frozen foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, though it may require training to accept these foods. Frequent feedings are essential.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; best kept with other peaceful, slow-moving species. Avoid housing with fast or aggressive fish that may outcompete it for food.
• Skill Level: Expert-only; requires specialized care, frequent feeding, and a stable tank environment with a sandy substrate.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; while reef-safe, its feeding behavior may disturb small invertebrates in the substrate. It is best kept in a species-specific setup or with carefully selected tankmates.

Special Requirement - Sandy Substrate and Open Space
The Sea Moth requires an open, sandy substrate for moving along the bottom of the tank, as it glides and “walks” on its pelvic fins. It needs a low-traffic environment with minimal obstructions to prevent stress and allow natural behaviors.

Compatibility
The Sea Moth is peaceful and best kept with other non-aggressive, slow-moving species. Avoid tankmates that may outcompete it for food or disturb it in the sand. It thrives in a calm, species-specific tank or a carefully selected community setup.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Sea Moth displays an intricate pattern of browns and tans, which helps it blend into sandy and rocky substrates. Its armor-like body and winged pectoral fins give it a dragon-like appearance, adding a fascinating visual to the aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly in sandy and rubble areas near coral reefs. The Sea Moth thrives in environments with a sandy bottom where it can search for small crustaceans and invertebrates in the substrate.