Checkerboard Wrasse

Checkerboard Wrasse

Also known as: Harlequin Wrasse, Checkerboard Wrasse

The Checkerboard Wrasse is a distinctive species featuring a bold black and white checkerboard pattern. This active, reef-safe wrasse adds unique visual interest to aquariums. With proper care, this peaceful species makes an excellent addition to community reef tanks.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres hortulanus
• Common Names: Checkerboard Wrasse, Harlequin Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 10-12 inches
• Lifespan: 8-10 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide a spacious aquarium with plenty of live rock arranged to create caves and swimming lanes. These active species need substantial open swimming space. Require 2-3 inches of sand substrate for burrowing and sleeping. Well-established tank with stable conditions preferred.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate to strong water flow
  • Tight-fitting lid

Diet & Feeding

Checkerboard Wrasses are carnivores with hearty appetites. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, marine flake food
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped clams, krill, mixed seafood preparations
• Live Foods: Feeder shrimp (occasionally)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Enthusiastic eaters; may outcompete slower tank mates

Notes & Considerations

• Juvenile and adult coloration is dramatically different – juveniles have distinctive checkerboard patterns.
• Adults develop more muted coloration with age.
• Active swimmers that utilize all areas of the aquarium.
• Generally peaceful but can be territorial toward similar species.
• May eat small ornamental shrimp and crustaceans.
• Excellent at controlling bristle worms, pyramidellid snails, and flatworms.
• Safe with corals but caution with very small invertebrates.
• Burrows into sand at night for sleeping and protection.
• Provide adequate sand depth (2-3 inches minimum) for burrowing.
• Can be kept with other peaceful semi-aggressive fish.
• May show aggression toward new additions once established.
• Fast grower; requires larger aquarium as it matures.
• Sequential hermaphrodites; can change sex.
• Secure aquarium lid recommended; wrasses can jump.
• Hardy and adaptable once acclimated.

Why Choose a Quarantined Checkerboard Wrasse?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this distinctive and active species.