Tiger Waspfish

Ablabys taenianotus, the Cockatoo Waspfish or Tiger Waspfish, is one of the marine world's most extraordinary mimics — its highly compressed body, prominent dorsal fin crest, and mottled brown coloration combine to make it almost indistinguishable from a drifting dead leaf. It reinforces this illusion by rocking back and forth with the current, an adaptation that allows it to approach prey undetected before striking. Reef-safe toward corals but an effective ambush predator of small fish and shrimp.

Provide a reef or FOWLR tank with natural rockwork and rubble areas where it can perch and ambush prey. Feed frozen meaty foods — large mysis, ghost shrimp, and whole small fish — offered on tongs near its resting position. May initially require live food to trigger a feeding response; wean onto frozen foods with patience. Do not house with small fish or ornamental shrimp that will be consumed. Generally peaceful toward larger fish that are not prey-sized.