Overview
- Found in tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific, particularly in areas with sandy patches and coral structures.
- Known for its intricate mosaic-like coloration that varies between males and females.
- Spends much of its time foraging for small invertebrates among the reef.
- Exhibits fascinating social behavior and may change coloration based on mood or hierarchy.
Feeding
- Primarily feeds on small snails and other hard-shelled prey, foraminiferans, and tiny crustaceans in the wild.
- In captivity, prefers live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and blackworms.
- Requires frequent feedings throughout the day due to its high metabolism.
- May take time to adjust to prepared foods, so offering a diverse diet ensures proper nutrition.
Habitat
- Thrives in reef environments with a mix of sand and rocky areas for shelter.
- Requires fine substrate for burrowing, as it sleeps under the sand at night.
- Prefers stable water conditions with moderate water movement.
- Plenty of live rock provides natural feeding opportunities and hiding spaces.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Requires a well-established tank with a stable biological system.
- Regular water changes and high-quality filtration help maintain health.
Compatibility
- Peaceful but can be shy, especially in the presence of aggressive species.
- Best kept with other non-aggressive fish that allow it to forage freely.
- May form small groups if introduced properly, displaying interesting social interactions.
- Not suitable for tanks with overly territorial fish that may intimidate it.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active during the day, continuously foraging and exploring the rockwork.
- Hides in the sand at night for protection, emerging in the morning.
- Gradually becomes more confident and interactive with tank mates.
- Displays rapid color shifts depending on its environment and social standing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish is this page about?
This page covers Macropharyngodon meleagris, best known as the Leopard Wrasse and also called the Guinea Fowl or Blackspotted Wrasse. It is a different fish from the Peacock Wrasse, Iniistius pavo.
Why is the Leopard Wrasse rated advanced?
It often ships poorly, can be slow to accept prepared food, and needs a mature tank with plenty of natural prey. LiveAquaria sells it as expert only.
What size tank does a Leopard Wrasse need?
At least 90 gallons (341 L), with well-established live rock and a layer of live sand.
How big does the Leopard Wrasse get?
Around 6 in (15 cm) as an adult.
Does the Leopard Wrasse need sand?
Yes. It buries itself in the sand to sleep and to hide when frightened, so it needs a soft sand bed a few inches deep.
What does the Leopard Wrasse eat?
In the wild it eats snails and other hard-shelled prey, foraminiferans and small crustaceans picked from rock and rubble. In the aquarium offer enriched frozen mysis and brine shrimp, other meaty foods, and quality marine flakes and pellets.
Is the Leopard Wrasse reef safe?
Yes. It leaves corals alone and spends its day hunting tiny invertebrates on the rockwork.
Do male and female Leopard Wrasses look different?
Yes. Females are white with dark spots edged in blue. Males are orange-red with green mottling.
Can Leopard Wrasses be kept in groups?
They often do best in a small group of one male and several females introduced together, with only one male per tank.
Where does the Leopard Wrasse come from?
It is found in the Indo-Pacific, from the Cocos-Keeling Islands in the eastern Indian Ocean to the western Pacific and Oceania, on reef flats, lagoons and seaward reefs with mixed sand, rubble and coral.