Looking for first Wrasse

MichaelClark55 · Jan 14, 2019

I want to start adding some interesting fish to my 75 reef tank. I have been focusing on corals more than anything and now want to build my fish family. Like others I have learned in my research keeping them alive is the hardest part. (Just lost a Flame Angel for unknown reason)

I was looking hard at Melanrus Wrasse. Any input would be appreciated. Only fish I have in tank now is a Blue Green Chromis that has survived since the intial setup back in May and a large Lawnmower Bleeny.

Also have lots of hermits, a few emerald crabs, 2 urchins, a few large snails and loads of small snails which I know would be at risk with the Wrasse.

If the Melanrus would be the main fish what would be good mate to start out with? Maybe a Canary Wrasse? Other suggestions? And where is the best place to get the Melanrus, only place I have found one available is BlueZoo. Ready to make that purchase just wanted to check in here first.

nereefpat · Jan 14, 2019

Melanurus is a great wrasse. They are popular for good reason. Canary is another great one. It's possible to have both. I would add at the same time, or add the canary first.

Both are pretty common. Your local fish store should have them, and I've ordered both from live aquaria.

Jesterrace · Jan 14, 2019

I would add the Melanurus Wrasse last, they can be jerks to new Wrasse additions once they get established and may take exception to other Halichoeres Wrasses. My Melanurus gave my poor Blue Star Leopard a heck of time for a couple of weeks and the Mel still doesn't care for it at feeding time. As you know Snails, Hermits and smaller ornamental shrimp are definitely on the menu and it will periodically pick them off. The plus side is that you get a generally peaceful and beautifully colored (if it's a mature male) fish that is active and full of personality and a great pest remover to boot. They are also generally good with other fish, BUT if another fish attempts to push them around they will definitely stick up for themselves. I had a little butthead of an Occ Clown that tried to pick on mine one time too many and it incurred the Melanurus' Wrath for the next day or two. Put his little punk attitude in check pretty quickly. An assertive Yellow Tang that was added afterwards tried to push it around only to find out that the Wrasse was not afraid of it and willing to bite it's tail scalpel and all. Humorous seeing a 3 inch juvie Melanurus chasing a 4 inch long and much taller Yellow Tang and the Wrasse getting the better of the Tang. Also be aware that juvies can be dull and drab, so be patient with them for their colors to come in. I bought mine very small in july of last year and it's just starting to transition to adult color scheme. Here it was a few months ago:

Here is what it looks like currently: