Link back to Home Page
Marine Fish Invertebrates Corals Macroalgae

         

Wrasse:

Wrasse belong to the Labridae family, having 60 genera and over 500 species. Wrasse are one of the largest families of coral reef fish. The size of a Wrasse in an aquarium varies considerably, but most reach an average size of six inches in length. In the wild, the largest member of this family grows to an adult size of over six feet. Wrasse are closely related to Parrotfish, and can be recognized by their bright colors and elongated body with a pointed snout. Wrasse are found throughout the world in all marine habitats. Most Wrasse are schooling fish, but others may be found in a harem or as individuals when young. The majority of Wrasse bury themselves in the sand at night, and also when threatened.

Some Wrasse are referred to as Cleaner Fish, and will set up a station on the reef to pick parasites and dead tissue from larger fish, including predators.

Not all Wrasse adapt well to life in an aquarium, some may require special attention and should only be kept by very experienced aquarists. Wrasse must have an aquarium with a well-sealed lid, along with fine substrate, and good water conditions.

Some species of Wrasse go through drastic color changes from juvenile to adult form. Most Wrasse have no characteristics that differentiate males from females.

A Wrasse's natural diet consists of fish, crustaceans, motile invertebrates, and worms. The diet in the aquarium should include a variety of feeder shrimp, marine flesh, frozen meaty preparations for carnivores, and flaked foods.

Click on thumbnails for more information.

Banana Wrasse (Thalassoma lutescens) Banded Possum Wrasse (Wetmorella sp.) Bird Wrasse (Gomphosus varius) Blackedge Thicklip Wrasse (Hemigymnus melapterus) Bluehead Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura) Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)


<<Back  More>>


[ Equipment | Set Up | Water Quality | Algae Nuisance & Control | Nutrition | Anatomy]
[ Health & Disease | Fast Facts | Species Compatibility | On The Lighter Side | Disclaimer]
[ Privacy Policy | Glossary of Terms | Product Reviews | My Aquarium Manager | Links]

- Copyright © 2004 - 2008 by Saltwater Aquarium Guide All Rights Reserved -
- - - -
website statistics