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November 24, 2009
Marine Fish
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Checkerboard Wrasse
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Checkerboard Wrasse
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

The juvenile Checkerboard Wrasse, also known as the Marble/Hortulanus Wrasse, is white with stripes, dots, and patches of black. With maturity, it becomes silver with a distinctive black checkerboard pattern on the body. The dorsal fin and tail are yellow, and the face is light green with orange to pink striped markings.

A 75 gallon or larger aquarium with a sealed lid, a 2-3 inch sandy bottom to hide under if frightened, and other peaceful wrasses, including its own species, is a suitable environment. In the tank, it will eat fireworms and pyramidellid snails, protecting corals and clams. In addition, it may eat feather dusters, wild shrimp, tubeworms, and flatworms.

Regular feedings should include a variety of prepared and live meaty foods such as feeder shrimps, flaked foods, and marine fish.

Fish Facts
Name: Checkerboard Wrasse (Halichoeres hortulanus)
Family: Labridae
Range: Red Sea, The Great Barrier Reef, Pacific
Size: Up to 11 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Tank Set-up: Marine: Gravel or sand
Reef Compatible: With caution
Tank Conditions: 72-78°F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4
Minimum Tank Capacity: 75 gallon
Light: High
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: No specific level
Care Level: Experts only
Reproduction: Egg Layer
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Picture(s): Courtesy of Drs. Foster and Smith |
Information provided courtesy of PetEducation.com

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