Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Dusky Wrasse is native throughout the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea. Like all wrasses in the genus Halichoeres, the Dusky wrasse absolutely requires a moderately-sized to fine sandy substrate in order to be able to bury themselves at night for protection or if felt threatened during daylight. In fact, it is very normal for your newly introduced wrasse to immediately bury themselves once released into the aquarium. Male Dusky wrasses have a very tall and overall grey-olive body with a yellow undertone, blue spots along its body and stripes only in its face which distinguishes it from the more common Melanurus wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus). Female or juvenile Dusky wrasse colors are more dull. Dusky wrasses are sought after for not only their active and unique presence in a reef aquarium, but for their incredible natural ability to control and eliminate nuisance red Planaria flatworms and pyramidellid snails that sometimes hitch hike on corals or live rock. This behavior is exhibited across most Halichoeres wrasses. Dusky wrasses can reach a size of approximately 6″. This species is not as easy to care for as others within the genus.

Diet Requirements: Dusky wrasses are carnivores, actively hunting tiny crustaceans (e.g., copepods, featherdusters) throughout the day. A diet consisting of various meaty preparations such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other mixed frozen foods that contain algae, such as spirulina, will maintain optimal health and coloration. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements, as these wrasses have very high metabolisms. Multiple, small feedings per day rather than one large feeding can also help and in turn create more of a natural environment for a Dusky wrasse as it would feed in the wild. Dusky wrasses will also accept high quality flake or pellet foods, which is great for nutritional gaps and variety.

Care Requirements: An established, minimum 90 gallon aquarium with a 3″ sandbed at the very least is needed for a Dusky wrasse. A tight fitting lid is a must because these wrasses are known to jump out of aquariums. Dusky wrasses enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to swim through and around while they hunt. Such live rock arrangements can also help to make it feel secure and encourage more outgoing behavior. Given their peaceful nature, a Dusky wrasse should not be kept with overly aggressive species, especially those that can outcompete it in food resources. Dusky wrasses are compatible with other peaceful wrasses, including different species in Halichoeres, though it is best to add them all at once for the best chance at success. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Large: 3-1/2″ to 4-1/2″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.