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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Labridae (Hogfish, Wrasses)
Natural Range: Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific Region, Pacific Ocean
Depth: 7 to 358 ft. Size: 6 in. Jumps: Yes Space: 75+ gal.
Reef Safe: Caution Care Level: Easy Temperament: Caution
Diet: Invertebrates (bristleworms, crustaceans, snails, brittle stars, mantis shrimp), small fish
Natural History: The Little Maori Wrasse is found among reefs and estuaries with abundant coral and macroalgae growth. Juveniles are reported to be secretive. Males are reported to be very territorial and will lock jaws and battle for 10 second bursts, repetitively.
Husbandry: The Little Maori-wrasse may be very shy when first introduced to a home aquarium. It will likely hide for days and may be picked on by other fish. Acclimation may be more difficult in an aquarium with aggressive tankmates. After acclimation, this species will likely be aggressive only to new tankmates. This species should be housed singly and not with any other Maori Wrasses. It will eat nearly any type of food, from live offerings to pellets.
AKA: Two-spot Wrasse, Red Longjaw Wrasse