Overview
- Native to the Western Indian Ocean, particularly around Madagascar and the African coastline.
- Recognized for its striking orange-red body with electric blue markings along its head and fins.
- A highly active and peaceful species, making it a great addition to reef aquariums.
- Juveniles and females display slightly duller coloration compared to vibrant adult males.
- Often used in reef tanks to help control unwanted pests such as flatworms and small invertebrates.
Feeding
- Carnivorous diet, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, copepods, and worms.
- Readily consumes frozen and live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood.
- Can be trained to eat high-quality marine pellets and flake foods.
- Requires multiple small meals throughout the day due to its high metabolism.
- Thrives in tanks with a sandbed, where it can naturally hunt for hidden prey.
Habitat
- Commonly found in coral reef slopes, sandy lagoons, and outer reef environments.
- Requires an aquarium with open swimming space and a fine sand substrate for burrowing.
- Best kept in tanks with live rock to provide shelter and foraging opportunities.
- Moderate to strong water flow is recommended to simulate natural reef conditions.
- A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended due to its activity level.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
- Ideal pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Requires stable water conditions and a well-maintained aquarium.
- Can be sensitive to sudden fluctuations in salinity and temperature.
- Regular sandbed maintenance is essential, as it burrows at night for protection.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but may become territorial towards similar wrasses.
- Compatible with other peaceful reef fish such as clownfish, gobies, and tangs.
- Should not be housed with overly aggressive species that may harass it.
- Reef-safe with corals but may consume small ornamental shrimp or snails.
- Does well in a community setting but may establish a preferred area in the tank.
Aquarium Behavior
- Highly active swimmer, often exploring every part of the aquarium.
- Frequently seen picking at rocks and sand in search of small invertebrates.
- Burrows in the sand at night for protection, emerging in the morning.
- Displays curiosity towards new tank additions and environmental changes.
- Thrives in tanks that mimic its natural reef habitat with plenty of space and hiding spots.