Which Leopard Wrasse?

The Saltwater Kid · Apr 22, 2012

I am looking to add a Leopard Wrasse to my 40g breeder but I am undecided as to which one? I am waffling between a female Blue Star (Divided or African...whichever name you wish to use) or a Potters but am open to any suggestions. I am looking for a nice reef-safe wrasse that will feed on pest crustaceans (otherwise I would be looking at some Fairy Wrasses too) that isn't the normal run of the mill 6 line etc. I would really like the opinion of people who own a Leopard Wrasse (especially of the two species I listed) but anyone's who is well versed in these fish would be appreciated!!!

revhtree · Apr 22, 2012

I have always wanted one but never have. Someone has though! BUMP!

UCedumacasion · Apr 22, 2012

these things can be tricky. I've kept a bunch of different leopards (both at home and at a store that I worked at). They should be similar in price so that shouldn't be a problem but of the two that you are interested in I'd say hands down the African Blue Star Leopard, for the simple reason that you can actually get a good percentage to live. Potters are awesome fish but they don't acclimate particularly well.

I'd say either way you need to get a small one, better chance of it eating and they do get a good size (too big for a 40).

Good luck!

reeftopia · Apr 22, 2012

Got 2 potters at petco 3weeks ago and there both going strong, Have heard if you have 2 one will eventually become a male, never seen a male for sale.

redemer123 · Apr 22, 2012

If you can find a good specimen and get it to eat you cant go wrong with either, I LOVE mine. I work at a store so I got mine real fat and adapted to aquarium life before I took it home. If you have the luxury of your local fish store holding your specimen for a while take advantage of it.

Here's my blue star, or vermiculate wrasse female

also dont be surprised if you buy one and it hides for a week or more before you see it, mine hid for 7 days. your best best is to expect the worse (dead) and hope for the best if it hides for a long time this way you kind of forget about it lol, then one day you look at your tank and bam, ya got yourself a leopard wrasse :)

k2parkstar · Apr 22, 2012

I've got a female leopard wrasse. She's probably my favorite fish. She's beautiful, very active, and a hearty mysis eater. I didnt see her but once or twice for a few weeks. Video of her feeding below.