Spotted wrasse

The spotted wrasse is an elegant marine wrasse in the family Labridae, found in the tropical Indo-Pacific. Females are dark brown to black covered in numerous small white spots with a bright yellow tail, while terminal males become paler with more intricate blue and orange patterning as they change sex. It is a peaceful, active swimmer that can be kept singly or in a small group and mixes well with other calm reef fish. A mature aquarium with a deep sand bed, live rock, and open swimming space is important, as this wrasse buries itself in the sand to sleep and when frightened. A secure lid is advised. It is a carnivore feeding on small invertebrates and benthic prey; it can be delicate to establish and requires a healthy population of micro-fauna plus frequent feedings of meaty frozen foods. It is reef-safe.