Australian Stripey

About Australian Stripey

The Australian Stripey is a striking Australian marine fish recognised for its bright yellow body and bold black diagonal stripes. It is an active, social species that naturally forms schools around rocky reefs, bays and coastal environments.

The Australian East Coast species is now recognised as Microcanthus joyceae, having previously been commonly identified as Microcanthus strigatus.

Australian Stripeys are excellent swimmers and are best kept in an aquarium with plenty of open swimming space alongside rockwork and hiding areas. They can be kept in groups and are generally peaceful compared with many other marine fish.

Their natural diet consists of algae and small invertebrates, so a varied aquarium diet containing marine algae, quality pellets and frozen foods is recommended.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Microcanthus joyceae
Common Name: Australian Stripey / East-Australian Stripey
Family: Microcanthidae
Type: Australian Marine Fish
Adult Size: Up to approximately 16 cm
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Territorial
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Minimum Aquarium: 200 L+
Temperature: 20–26°C
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Omnivore / Algae Grazer
Tank Level: Midwater
Suitable For: Marine community aquariums and Australian reef-style systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Australian Stripey a schooling fish?

Yes. Australian Stripeys naturally occur in small to large aggregations, making groups particularly attractive in larger aquariums.

How big does an Australian Stripey get?

They can reach approximately 16 cm, so they should be planned for as a substantial adult fish rather than purchased based solely on juvenile size.

What do Australian Stripeys eat?

They naturally consume algae and invertebrates. In aquariums, provide a varied diet of marine algae, nori, quality marine pellets, mysis shrimp and other frozen foods.

Are Australian Stripeys reef safe?

They are generally considered suitable for marine community and reef-style aquariums. Their natural diet includes algae and small invertebrates, so individual behaviour should still be monitored.

Where are Australian Stripeys found?

Microcanthus joyceae occurs along Australia's east coast from central Queensland to southern New South Wales, as well as the Lord Howe Province and Norfolk Island region.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them in a small aquarium
They are active swimmers and can reach around 16 cm, so provide plenty of swimming space.

Keeping only a single fish
They naturally form aggregations, so groups can provide more natural behaviour where aquarium size allows.

Not providing algae-based foods
Algae is an important component of their natural diet.

Using insufficient filtration
Larger active fish produce considerable waste, so strong filtration and good oxygenation are important.

Confusing the species with the Western Stripey
Australian East Coast Stripeys are now recognised as Microcanthus joyceae, while M. strigatus is used for the Western Stripey and other populations.