Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse
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Six Line Wrasse
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Leopard Wrasse EXPERT ONLY
$84.99
Macropharyngodon meleagris
| Care Level | Expert Only |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Color Form | Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Red, Tan, 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 | 6″ |
| Family | Labridae |
| Minimum Tank Size | 90 gallons |
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Description
Overview
The Leopard Wrasse (genus Macropharyngodon) is a group of stunning, peaceful marine fish known for their vibrant colors and distinctive spotted patterns. They are popular, but challenging, aquarium fish recommended for expert aquarists due to specific diet and habitat requirements.Â
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: Coloration varies significantly by species, gender, and maturity. Females of the Macropharyngodon meleagris (Guinea Fowl Wrasse) are generally white with black or brown spots, while males have an orangish-red background with green mottling. The Blue Star Leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon bipartitus) female has a red body with white splotches, which changes to a mix of green, red, purple, and blue splotches and stripes in males.
- Size:Â Most species grow to a maximum of 4 to 6 inches in length.
- Habitat:Â Native to the Indo-Pacific, they inhabit coral reefs and lagoons with mixed sand and rubble.
- Behavior:Â They are active during the day, constantly foraging for small invertebrates. At night or when frightened, they are known to quickly bury themselves in the sand. They are peaceful toward other fish species but may show aggression towards other male wrasses of the same genus in an aquarium.
- Sexual Dimorphism: Like other wrasses, they are hermaphroditic, with females potentially changing into males to become the dominant fish in a group.Â
Aquarium Care
Due to their sensitive nature and specific dietary needs, Leopard Wrasses are best suited for experienced hobbyists in a well-established reef system.
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Tank Size | 50 to 90 gallons, depending on the species. |
| Substrate | A deep bed (at least 2-4 inches) of fine, soft sand is essential for burrowing and sleeping. |
| Diet | They are carnivores, feeding on small invertebrates, copepods, and amphipods in the wild. In captivity, a varied diet of high-quality frozen and live meaty foods, such as vitamin-enriched mysis and brine shrimp, is required several times a day. |
| Tank Environment | Ample live rock for hiding and foraging is necessary. A tight-fitting lid is a must, as these fish are known to jump out of aquariums. |
| Water Conditions | Stable parameters are critical, with temperatures between 74-78°F (23-26°C), pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity of 1.020-1.025. |
When introducing a Leopard Wrasse, it may hide in the sand for several days while acclimating to the new environment; patience is key. They should be introduced to the aquarium before any potentially aggressive tank mates.Â
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1/2″ to 1-1/4″; Medium: 1-1/4″ to 2-1/4″; Large: 2-1/4″ to 3-1/2″
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.
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