Earmuff Wrasse

Earmuff Wrasse

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Halichoeres melasmapomus

Overview

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

Halichoeres melasmapomus, commonly known as the Earmuff Wrasse, is a rare and captivating member of the wrasse family. These exquisite fish are endemic to the Indo-Pacific Ocean where they explore reefs in search of invertebrates such as small crabs, shrimp, and worms. Let’s dive into some fascinating details about them:

• Appearance:

  • Males: They can have a teal head that gradually transitions into a red posterior. Their fins may be green or red.
  • Size: Earmuff wrasses can grow up to approximately 5 inches in length.
  • Distinctive Feature: A large pale-edged black spot on their gill cover adds to their unique appearance.

• Habitat and Behavior:

  • These wrasses are often found around large open areas of sandbeds, including seagrass beds and rubble piles.
  • They prefer coastal waters on deeper reefs, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 5 meters (16 feet).
  • When stressed or scared, juveniles may seek refuge under the sand during growth or color changes.
  • At night, Earmuff wrasses remain undisturbed by most nocturnal predators, although some predators with sonar can detect prey items hidden in the sandbed.

Remember, these remarkable wrasses are best suited for tanks with a sandbed, and their sandbed usage emphasizes the need for a sand depth of at least 2 inches with fine sand. Their presence adds a touch of elegance to reef ecosystems!