Melanurus Wrasse

The Melanurus Wrasse brings blue-green striping and constant movement to the reef, searching rockwork for small prey. Its colors change as it matures, and its active hunting behavior is part of its appeal.

Quick Care Guide

Tank Requirements

Provide open swimming room, rock crevices and a 2–3 inch area of fine sand for sleeping and retreating. A tight lid is essential. Allow a newly introduced fish time to emerge from the sand without digging it out. Tank recommendations refer to long-term housing; adult size, tank footprint and existing livestock also matter.

Diet & Feeding

Feed mysis, finely chopped marine meats and quality marine pellets in two or three small daily meals. Natural hunting supplements a complete diet; it is not a substitute for feeding.

Temperament & Compatibility

Usually compatible with corals, but small shrimp, snails and ornamental worms may be eaten. Choose tankmates that tolerate an active wrasse, and use caution with other Halichoeres species.

Water Conditions

• Temperature: 75–78°F
• Specific gravity: 1.024–1.026
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia and nitrite: undetectable

Maintain stable conditions, good oxygenation and regular water quality checks. Match acclimation to the fish's actual holding water.

Special Considerations

It may eat some aquarium pests, but pest control is variable and should not be the sole reason for keeping it.

Sold individually unless the selected listing states otherwise. Size, color and pattern vary by specimen.