Christmas Wrasse

Christmas Wrasse

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Halichoeres claudia

Overview

Reef Compatible: YES
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Docile
Origin: Central Pacific 

The Christmas Wrasse (Halichoeres claudia) is a captivating fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. Here’s what you need to know about this festive-looking species:

• Appearance: The Christmas Wrasse boasts a slender, dirigible-shaped body adorned with striking red horizontal lines that extend down to its dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. Green striations add to its holiday charm, making it resemble a living Christmas tree! Its translucent pectoral fins help it float gracefully.

• Common Names: Also known as the Ornate Wrasse, Green-Barred Wrasse, Red-Lined Wrasse, or Ladder Wrasse, this fish’s distinct coloration inspires its various nicknames.

• Size & Lifespan: Christmas Wrasses can reach up to 11 inches in length and typically live 5 to 8 years.

• Care Level: They are relatively easy to care for, making them a delightful addition to aquariums.

• Diet: As carnivores, they feast on snails, worms, and shrimp.

• Tank Requirements: A tank size of at least 250 gallons is recommended. Maintain water parameters within the range of 72-78°F, pH 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity (salinity) of 1.020-1.025.

• Reef Safe: Yes, they are compatible with reef environments.

• Breeding Difficulty: Breeding Christmas Wrasses can be challenging, especially considering that females can transform into males.

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply appreciating their vibrant colors, Christmas Wrasses bring joy to any aquarium.