Xmas Red-lined Wrasse

Also known as Christmas Wrasse, Striped Wrasse

The male Xmas Red-lined Wrasse is a stunning species displaying vibrant green body with distinctive red horizontal stripes creating a festive appearance. This active and hardy sand-dwelling wrasse brings spectacular color and natural pest control to reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres biocellatus
• Common Names: Xmas Wrasse, Christmas Wrasse, Ornate Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe (with caution regarding small ornamental shrimp)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide live rock with caves and a sandy substrate (1-2 inches minimum) for burying at night. These active wrasses patrol all areas of the aquarium hunting for food. Secure lid recommended as they can jump when startled.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality required
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Protein skimmer
  • Adequate filtration
  • Moderate water circulation

Diet & Feeding

Male Xmas Red-lined Wrasses are carnivorous hunters with varied dietary needs:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Will naturally hunt flatworms, small bristleworms, and other pests
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Good natural pest control; actively hunts unwanted invertebrates

Notes & Considerations

• Males display vibrant green body with bold red horizontal stripes creating festive “Christmas” appearance.
• Completely reef safe with corals; may occasionally hunt small ornamental shrimp.
• Only one male per tank recommended.
• Buries in sand at night; this is normal and healthy behavior.
• Hardy species excellent for aquarists with basic marine experience.
• Very active swimmer that patrols throughout the entire aquarium.
• Generally peaceful but may chase very small, timid fish.
• Secure lid recommended; can jump if startled or chased.
• Adapts quickly to aquarium life and accepts prepared foods readily.
• Sandy substrate required for long-term health and natural behavior.
• May eat small crustaceans like sexy shrimp or mini carpet anemone shrimp.
• Shows best coloration under quality reef lighting.

Why Choose a Quarantined Xmas Red-lined Wrasse?

Our quarantined males are already acclimated to aquarium life, accepting all prepared foods, and displaying vibrant coloration. This hardy species benefits from our observation period, ensuring you receive a healthy, robust specimen ready to provide both festive beauty and natural pest control in your reef aquarium.