What could have caused such a clean cut on the tail?

I would highly doubt it was any invertebrate. That is from a big fish for sure, and as Chris said, almost surely the crosshatch. Fins split easily along that axis, but also heal quickly, provided the deepest area isnt damaged too much.

Thanks. I've seen fins heal from bites but never this deep so time will tell if this is too deep.
 
Pictures I just took

DSC_5100.jpg


DSC_5103.jpg


DSC_5099.jpg
 
xhatches dont have mouths like that. the wound would be more circular.


both of your hogfish can be pushy-not the most aggressive but still pushy.


the wound is obviosly something with an elongated snout/claw. i.e. hogfish or crab.
 
I had the same thing happen with my flame angel and a xhatch. I saw it happen though and the wound looked the same. I wouldn't really worry, my flame healed perfectly and the xhatch hasn't done it ever again.
 
xhatches dont have mouths like that. the wound would be more circular.


both of your hogfish can be pushy-not the most aggressive but still pushy.


the wound is obviosly something with an elongated snout/claw. i.e. hogfish or crab.

Nah, I've had fish with round mouths make bites just like that.

It doesnt have to use every tooth and every surface in it's mouth to make the bite, it could have easily just started biting and only had slight pressure at the front of the mouth then the bandit zipped away, causing a small tear like that.
 
I would highly doubt it was any invertebrate. That is from a big fish for sure, and as Chris said, almost surely the crosshatch. Fins split easily along that axis, but also heal quickly, provided the deepest area isnt damaged too much.

After 9 days the deepest area is growing back so hopefully in couple of more weeks it will heal completely. :)
 
Back
Top