Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Vrolik’s Wrasse, also referred to the Indian Ocean Pinstriped Wrasse, is found across the Indian Ocean and is truly a one of the most beautiful Halichoeres. Like all wrasses in the genus Halichoeres, the Vrolik’s 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 common for your newly introduced wrasse to immediately bury themselves once released into the aquarium. Male Vrolik’s wrasses have an overall brilliantly blue-green body with neon red horizontal stripes in its face and body. Female or juvenile Vrolik’s wrasse colors are more muted, but both of these are uncommon in the hobby as adult males are typically only offered. The male Vrolik’s wrasse looks similar to the common male Melanurus wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus), however Vrolik’s wrasse have spots in the caudal (tail) fin, whereas melanurus wrasse have lines. Vrolik’s wrasses are sought after for not only their active and colorful 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. Vrolik’s wrasses can reach a size of approximately 5″. Note: This species is infrequently available.
Diet Requirements: Vrolik’s 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 Vrolik’s wrasse as it would feed in the wild. Vrolik’s 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 Vrolik’s wrasse. A tight fitting lid is a must because these wrasses are known to jump out of aquariums. Vrolik’s 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 Vrolik’s wrasse should not be kept with overly aggressive species, especially those that can outcompete it in food resources. It is best to add a Vrolik’s wrasse before larger or more active fish in order to allow it to acclimate to the environment. Vrolik’s 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: Medium Male: 3″ to 4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
