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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Labridae (Hogfish, Wrasses)
Natural Range: Pacific Ocean
Depth: 16 to 115 ft. Size: 11 in. Jumps: Possible Space: 125+ gal.
Reef Safe: No Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Caution
Diet: Invertebrates such as shrimps, molluscs, crustaceans, worms, echinoderms
Natural History: The Harlequin Tusk is found in small loose groups on outer lagoons and coastal reefs over rubble, hunting among the rubble for food. It is reclusive and hides among the rubble when threatened.
Husbandry: The acclimation of a Harlequin Tunk will often be accompanied by hiding under rocks. Once it is accustomed to the aquarium, it may become aggressive toward other smaller fish, but be harassed by other more aggressive dottybacks and angels. It generally readily accepts aquarium foods, frozen and prepared. It will eat ornamental shrimp. Australian specimens are reported to be hardier in captivity than Philippine ones.
Reproduction: This species reproduces by releasing gametes into the water column as they swim upward.