Animal Planet :: Fish Guide -- Wrasse

Wrasse

Wrasse belong to the Labridae family. With 60 genera and over 500 species, Wrasse are one of the largest families of coral reef fish. The size of Wrasse in an aquarium varies considerably within each genus, but most reach an average size of six inches in length. In the wild, the largest member of this family grows to an adult size of over six feet. Wrasse are closely related to Parrotfish, and can be recognized by their bright colors and elongated body with a pointed snout. Wrasse are found throughout the world in all marine habitats. Most Wrasse are schooling fish, but others may be found in a harem or as individuals when young. Most Wrasse bury themselves in the sand at night, and also when threatened.

Some Wrasse are referred to as Cleaner Fish, and will set up a station on the reef to pick parasites and dead tissue from larger fish, including predators. Most Cleaner Wrasse are recognized by other reef fish, and are not eaten by larger fish on the reef.

Some Wrasse adapt well to life in an aquarium, but others may require special attention and should only be kept by very experienced aquarists. Wrasse must have an aquarium with a well-sealed lid, along with fine substrate, and good water conditions.

Some species of Wrasse go through drastic color changes from juvenile to adult form. Most species of Wrasse have no characteristics that differentiate males from females, and the breeding of these fish in an aquarium is extremely difficult.

They are generally compatible with: Large Angelfish, Boxfish, Damselfish and Tangs & Surgeons.

Caution is required with: Dwarf Angelfish, Anglers & Frogfish, Anthias, Basslets, Blennies, Butterflyfish, Cardinalfish, Clownfish, Eels, Filefish, Goatfish, Gobies, Groupers, Grunts & Sweetlips, Hawkfish, Hogfish, Lionfish & Scorpionfish, Parrotfish, Puffers, Squirrelfish, Triggerfish and Wrasse.

They are not compatible with: Batfish, Pseudochromis, Seahorses & Pipefish and Sharks & Rays.

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