Black-backed Wrasse EXPERT ONLY (Anampses neoguinaicus)

Quick Stats
Care Level: Expert Only | Temperament: Semi-aggressive | Color Form: Black, White | Diet: Carnivore | Reef Compatible: Yes | Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78? F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 | Max. Size: 9″ | Family: Labridae | Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons | Compatibility: View Chart

Overview
The Black-backed Wrasse is a moderately-sized wrasse that is striking in its simplicity. The Black-backed Wrasse has an elongated body with dorsal and anal fins that extend almost the entire length of the fish. Towards the rear of both of these fins is a large deep blue eyespot that helps in protecting the fish as a juvenile. They are primarily white in coloration with many vibrant bright blue dots. The top front half of the fish is bluish-black in coloration, which lends to its common name.

The Black-backed Wrasse requires a 120 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging for food. As juveniles, the Black-backed Wrasse may be kept in numbers but may turn aggressive towards each other when fully grown. In the wild the Black-backed Wrasse feeds on benthic invertebrates and may pick at desirable fanworms and ornamental crustaceans in the home aquarium. However, the Black-backed Wrasse will typically not harm sessile invertebrates including soft or stony corals.

The Black-backed Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.

Approximate Purchase Size: Male Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″; Small/Medium: 2-1/2″ to 3-1/2″; Medium: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″; Medium/Large: 4-1/2″ to 5-1/2″; Large: 5-1/4″ to 6-1/4″

Please note: We guarantee that ALL aquaria species we offer will arrive alive and in good condition. However, because of the increased level of care required for this particular species, it has been designated as “Expert Only.” This species is recommended only for the expert aquarist, zoo, or research institution. ?Expert Only? aquatic life is exempt from our extended guarantee after their arrival.