China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse

China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse

Also known as: China Wrasse, Black-backed Wrasse

The China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse is a beautiful species featuring elegant pearl-like spotting with distinctive black dorsal coloration. This active, hardy wrasse is an excellent reef inhabitant and pest controller. With a peaceful temperament and stunning appearance, this species is highly sought after by aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Anampses neoguinaicus
• Common Names: China Pearl Wrasse, Black-backed Wrasse, New Guinea Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 5-6 inches
• Lifespan: 6-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Moderate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploration. Create caves and overhangs for security. Requires 2-4 inches of fine sandy substrate as it buries itself at night. Active species need open swimming space. Prefers well-established systems with stable conditions.
• 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
  • Moderate water circulation
  • Tight-fitting lid (can jump)

Diet & Feeding

China Pearl Wrasses are carnivores with good appetites. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, marine flake food
• Frozen Foods: Vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood, krill
• Live Foods: Copepods, amphipods
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily

Notes & Considerations

• Features beautiful pearl-like spotting with distinctive black dorsal stripe.
• Males and females show different coloration patterns.
• Active swimmer throughout the day; burrows in sand at night.
• Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or most invertebrates.
• Excellent at controlling various aquarium pests.
• Generally peaceful with other fish species.
• Can be territorial with conspecifics and similar-looking phrases.
• Should be added to peaceful community tanks.
• Requires adequate sand depth for burrowing behavior.
• May stay buried for the first few days after introduction (normal acclimation).
• Hardy once established in a proper environment.
• Sequential hermaphrodites; can change from female to male.
• Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress.
• Secure lid essential; known jumpers when startled.
• More peaceful than some Anampses species.

Why Choose a Quarantined China Pearl Black-backed 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 elegant and hardy species.