Dusky Margined Wrasse

Also known as Dusky-Margin Fairy Wrasse

The Dusky Margined Wrasse is an attractive and peaceful species featuring blue-green coloration with distinctive dark-edged fins. This hardy planktivore is an excellent choice for reef aquariums and adds graceful movement throughout the water column.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres marginatus
• Common Names: Dusky Margined Wrasse, Laboute’s Fairy Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide abundant live rock with caves and crevices. Appreciates open swimming areas and well-established aquariums. Needs a secure lid as they can jump when startled or during acclimation.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Stable water conditions preferred
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Adequate filtration
  • Moderate water movement

Diet & Feeding

Dusky Margined Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, live copepods (beneficial during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily once acclimated

Notes & Considerations

• Males display a blue-green body with dark-bordered dorsal and caudal fins.
• Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• One of the hardier fairy wrasse species; good choice for first-time fairy wrasse keepers.
• Secure lid mandatory; can jump if startled.
• Generally peaceful.
• Males may display to females or when excited.
• Active swimmers that utilize all levels of the aquarium.
• Generally disease-resistant when provided proper conditions.

Why Choose a Quarantined Dusky Margined Wrasse?

Our quarantined specimens are thoroughly observed, treated preventatively, and already accepting a variety of prepared foods. This careful conditioning period ensures you receive a robust, healthy fish ready to thrive in your reef aquarium.