- Lunare Wrasse Problems -
Hi-
I recently got some saltwater fish for my saltwater fish tank. It's a 40 gallon
tank. I had 2 clownfish, and a firefish. They were all living together for about
a week. I just got a lunare wrasse. When I bought it in the store, they told me
it was a marble wrasse, but I looked it up on the internet, and the picture for
the marble wrasse did not look like my fish, but the lunare wrasse picture does.
My fish has a long, green body, with pink swirls on the face and yellow on the
tail, which I think looked like the lunare wrasse. If you could verify that for
me, that would be appreciated. <There are a couple of wrasses that bear this
facial coloration. Would suggest you look here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/thalassoma.htm >
My main concern however, is that the wrasse apparently killed my firefish. They
were fine last night when I first put the wrasse into the tank, and this morning
they were fine too. I went home on my lunch break, and discovered that the
wrasse had the firefish in its mouth, and it was dead. <Circumstantial evidence
- quite possible the poor firefish was already dead before the wrasse decided to
snack on it.>
Now, I was told when I bought the wrasse, that it was a peaceful fish, and would
not harm the other fish. <Mmm... well, it's true to some extent, but they are
territorial and given to fairly boisterous behavior which other fish can find
distressing. Not necessarily mean like a queen trigger.> I really don't think
that the firefish died on its own though, because it seemed to be doing fine.
<Can happen.> I just called the store where I bought the wrasse, and they said
that it was very unusual that the wrasse would kill another fish, even if they
are much smaller than it, and that wrasses are generally peaceful fish.
<Generally. Is like the line from the young girl, Newt, in the movie Aliens,
"The mostly come at night... mostly."> The only thing I can think of is that the
firefish had a long spike on top of it's head that would move up and down, I
wonder if that could have provoked the wrasse. <Doubt it.> Please let me know
what I should do. I don't really want to take the wrasse back to the store
because I like it, and hope that this was a one time thing that happened, but I
don't want it to harm my clownfish, and any other fish that I will get. <Well...
if you truly like this fish, you need to consider your future plans as this tank
is too small for its long term needs.> Please tell me as soon as possible what
to do here. Your response will be greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot.
<Cheers, J -- >
Aggressive Lunare Wrasse
(You Can Say That Again!) - 5/11/05
Hi,
<Hello, Steve Allen with you tonight.>
I have a 75GL tank with 40lbs of live rock. I currently have a maroon clown, Foxface, Flame Angel, and Lunar Wrasse, and a coral banded shrimp.
<Both the Lunare Wrasse and the Foxface will eventually need a much bigger tank.>
Since adding the wrasse about a month ago we have lost a camel shrimp, bi colored blenny and diamond goby all of which he had for dinner.
<These Wrasses are voracious eaters of pretty much any creature they can get in their mouths either whole or in pieces.>
We recently added the flame angel and for the first couple of days the wrasse wouldn't leave it alone. They seem to get along okay now and it does not seem to bother the rest of the fish except for a clipped fin on the clown every so often.
<Which is always an infection risk.>
I would like to add one more fish and wonder if you have any suggestions on what type of fish could hold his own with the wrasse and be compatible with my existing fish.
<Your tank is already full. Adding more would be a mistake. Nothing small enough that can be added will be able to deal with the Flame or the Lunare, both of which tend to be aggressive. Time to start saving and planning for a 120+G in a couple years or to trade the Wrasse and the Rabbit in for more suitable (i.e. smaller adult size) fish.>
My other option would be to return the wrasse but I actually kind of like him.
<They are beauties, but grow to nearly a foot and are very active swimmers--need more space.>
Thanks, Mike
<You're welcome. There are a lot of hard decisions in this hobby. Good luck.>
Compatibility of Lunare
Wrasse, Intro. to a Tough Crowd
Hey Crew!!
<Lucius>
I am a fellow hobbyist who has been a daily reader of your FAQ's. I have learned so much from you guys! Thank You! This is my second time
asking you guys a compatibility question. The first time I asked about adding a clown trigger to my tank. Thank you for steering me clear of
that disaster!
I have another compatibility question this time. I have a 250 gallon tank that has a Eheim 2028 canister filter, a 10 gallon
refugium with macro-algae, a UV sterilizer, an Aqua-C Remora Pro skimmer, a denitrator, about 100 lbs. of live rock, and 3-4 inches of
crushed coral substrate.
I have a rough and tumble system with a 7-inch blue-lined grouper, a 6.5-inch Hawaiian black trigger, a 5-inch
Picasso
trigger, a 6-inch regal blue tang, a 4-inch porcupine puffer, a 4-inch yellow tang, and a 4-inch maroon clown. Everyone gets along well except
for an occasional nipped fin here and there.
I would like to add one more fish to complete my masterpiece!! I am thinking about adding a
lunar wrasse to this fun bunch. I saw a beautiful 5-inch lunar wrasse and my LFS that I would love to add for its color and personality. I
have heard that lunar wrasses can be extremely aggressive, but, honestly, that is the only kind of fish I could add to these aggressive
fish. Please let me know what you think. Your help will be much appreciated and needed.
<Actually this is a very good choice for your system, current livestock... fast and smart and otherwise easygoing... should do fine here. Bob Fenner>
Sick angel? And Wisdom on Thalassoma lucasanum
Dear Crew,
<Hi there>
I have a Pygmy Coral Beauty Angel and a few days after I bought him, I notice white spots appearing on it. They are random all over the fish. They might be raised or on the skin, but the fish is always swimming through the rocks that
I can never get a good look. I have not seen the fish scratch itself, swim unusually, show any signs of stress, or lose any color. The strange thing is, the spots appear at about 6 or 7 o'clock each night and last until the morning, but when
I get home at about 4:00, the spots are gone. Could this be ich or some other disease?
<Is almost assuredly Cryptocaryon... good description of a case/situation in which the parasite is gaining ground during the day, cycling off at night>
I have read on your site that sometimes pods will attach to fish, could this be
happening?
<Highly unlikely>
At about 6:00 the sun goes down, and so the room will get a little darker, even though
I have a light on the tank. I know that pods become more active at night when there is less light, so,
I didn't know if that slight change in light would be enough to leave the rocks the angel is always swimming through and attach to her. Sorry
I can't send you a picture, but I don't have my digital camera that works to photo my fish with me.
On a better note, I have seen pictures of the beautiful Thalassoma lucasanum or Paddlefin Wrasse. I have not found much info about it on your site or others. I have some questions about it,
1) Are they ok to be kept single?
2) What do they eat?
3) Will the wrasse be compatible with my current fish (2 perculas, orchid
Dottyback, coral beauty angel, Huma Huma trigger, spotted Hawkfish)?
4) How hardy/ easy to keep are they?
<Yes, most all meaty foods, likely yes, and about medium>
And if you have any other information I might need to know to keep one, please let me know.
<I would be studying re ich/crypt... looking into a treatment/quarantine tank... removing, treating all fish livestock... and the rationale for these actions... on WWM. Bob Fenner>
Fish Keep Biting the Hand That Feeds...
Sorry to pester you guys. I have been trying to find an answer to my question but when I put in fish bites or fish attacks I get all kinds of things that don't pertain to my question. I'll get right to it. I have had good luck with my fish until recently. I added a neat piece of live rock about 2 months ago, since then my fish are going crazy. They've all been together for over a year with no additions other than a Chocolate Chip star which they seem not to mind. But the second I added this rock my blue damsel got all
defensive about it.
< Could be defending an area for mating reasons, but in new tanks I seriously doubt it. However, it could be defending a food source, and if you don't have much algae in your tank than this is very likely. >
He has had chunks taken out of him by other fish fighting him for it. I put him in the QT tank and when I brought him back up I had rearranged all the rocks. He found it again and it attacking everything, including
the magnet when we clean, our hands when we clean, etc. Then tonight I went to feed the starfish, he was on the bottom on the sand and I wanted to give him some shrimp, so I put my hand in to pick him up and my Paddlefin Wrasse bit me. It hurt and bled quite a bit. That's never happened before. Any idea why my fish are going crazy?
< It may be a lack of food, or a lack of natural settings in your tank. They are defending an area heavily because it is the only nice place in the tank. > The Wrasse doesn't care about the live rock the damsel is so enamored of so he wasn't defending that. Have you heard of wrasses attacking their meal tickets? I know Thalassoma wrasses are pretty aggressive but
Paddlefins are supposed to be pretty calm I thought.
< Actually I love wrasses. But no, I have no idea why this would happen. Sounds a little odd. >
Now I'm scared to put my hand back in the tank! I have heard of triggers biting, but our damsel tries to bite (just bumps into your hand) and now the wrasse! It sounds like I have my hands in the tank all the time, which is not the case and I usually wear long gloves when I'm cleaning it out but tonight I was in a hurry. Thanks so much for your time and your wonderful insight!
< Well, not much I can say except I would consider adding a few more pieces of nice live rock. I think that will help. >
Amy
< Blundell >
Lunar Wrasse
Greetings and Salutations Bob Fenner,
<Salutem dicit Chris>
Bob I recently purchased a Lunar Wrasse and presently house it in a 90 gallon tank with a bunch of other fish like; tang, clown and other. I
also have a predator tank or more aggressive tank with lionfish, trigger and butterfly. The question is this, I need to buy a bunch of
snails and stuff however the wrasse annoys them and probably eats them.
<Yes>
Every time I buy a new order my wife say's that the Lunar is fine dining. I have been trying to scoop him out over the past 3 days
(I leave a net hanging in the aquarium) with no luck, however the other fish are starting to get annoyed, any suggestions?
<Two nets... and perhaps help from your wife to net this fish out and move it in with the other tanks inhabitants. Bob Fenner>
Wrasse Identification
Hi, I have been eyeing a wrasse at the LFS for the last few weeks and decided to finally pick it up. Because it kind of just laid around I
wasn't sure of its health especially as I hadn't seen one like this before.
<Likely a Thalassoma lutescens: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/thalassoma.htm
>
Most wrasses I have had/have are energetic swimmers.
<Mmm, many species spend a considerable amount of time sitting about on or in the substrate>
But, I attributed this to its housing at the LFS, which was a small cube. It was labeled generically as Green Halichoeres Wrasse. But, he was
unusual so picked him up after seeing him digging and apparently healthy after a few weeks, though still not swimming much. I got him home and
acclimated him. After releasing him, he just fluttered to the bottom (44 gal corner, with 2 small Chromis). I had brought water to the LFS
before buying for a test and everything was nominal (8.3ph, 1.022 salinity, 0 ammonia, nitrates, nitrites). It's a well established tank
that I recently moved some fish out of and to another tank. He "rested" upside down for hours, but his eyes showed he was awake and aware as they
were looking around constantly. I had seen this somewhat before with wrasses being paranoid or scared and usually digging in for a while.
Later at night he hid behind some rocks, then finally came out and swam close to the bottom for few minutes and then used his head as a shovel
and dug a hole for the night. This took about 10 minutes, then he finally did that squirming I'm used to for wrasses to get the rest of
his body under the sand. This following morning (got him yesterday) he was back behind some the rock wall lying down, but again his eyes were
alert and was respiring normally. He doesn't move, at all, quite unlike other wrasses. I am hoping with identification, maybe you can
shed some light on his name and habits so I can see where I stand with this new fish. He is your standard wrasses shape, closer to a dragon
wrasse in shape with less ornamental fins, bright green though. In addition he has enormous canines similar to my Harlequin Tusk. I have
attached 4 pics from when I was acclimating him (I figured this would have been the only chance to photograph him standing still, apparently I
was wrong). Thanks as always. Scott
<Use the scientific name... your search tools... Bob Fenner>
Re: Wrasse Identification
Thanks for the quick reply. I looked at the Thalassoma lutescens, but the one I have looks nothing like the aforementioned fish (Green Moon
wrasse). The Thalassoma lutescens looks very similar to my lunar wrasse, but this one has a completely different mouth. It has huge
canines and cannot close its mouth with them as they are so pronounced, much like my Harlequin Tusk. Is there any other species you might think
it could be that I may be able to research? I looked at your wrasse pages and nothing looks similar.
Thanks again, Scott
<... the genus Thalassoma wrasses do have "large canines"... did you look at the pix on fishbase.org, Google images of this species? Take a look again please... at the pix you sent us. Bob Fenner>
Lunar Wrasse, Why Won't you Be Nice?
>Hi
>>Greetings, Marina today.
>Was hoping you could help me out with a query..
>>Indeed.
>I bought a lunare wrasse today as I was advised by the store owner that they
were non aggressive and reasonably hardy.
>>HA! That's amusing. I cannot repeat some of the other names this Thalassoma
is referred to by, suffice it to say they're all quite descriptive about its
propensity to harass other fish to DEATH.
>I couldn't find much on your site about this.. but from what I just read in a
faq that maybe this is not the case?
>>Maybe? The correct answer would be this is definitely NOT the case. These
fish can and should be housed with like aggressive, it can hold its own with
the likes of undulatus and blue-line triggers (assuming they're not cramped into
tiny quarters).
>I currently have 2 Chromis as I have only been running the tank for about 8
weeks. (it is cycled).
>>Of the damsels, those called "Chromis" are among the most timid. Not a good
mix. As for the cycle, please remember that with each addition the bioload is
increased, and it will take time for the cultures of nitrifiers to increase
sufficiently to handle nitrogenous waste (ammonia and following).
>I have put him in the tank and noticed that all he is doing is swimming around
in vertical circles.
>>These fish do at times have an odd tendency to swim in a vertical fashion,
using mostly their pectoral fins. I've noticed that once the fish is
comfortable and becomes more established in its territory that this will tend to
disappear, and the lovely harassment of other fish begins.
>Is this behaviour normal or are his days numbered?
>>Can be normal, but you've made a new addition whose size of which I haven't a
clue, let alone the size of the system. For all I know it's a smallish tank and
it's become thick with ammonia, though I'd think the Chromis would exhibit some
different behavior as well. Also, you've made no mention of quarantine, so, if
the animal has been introduced and is diseased, this stress can likely "bump it
up a notch". This means that what was latent may become obvious.
>I am hoping that maybe he just needs to settle in and could just be a bit
stressed?
>>Yes, this would be my tendency, but again, I know nothing else of this system
other than the fish and age.
>He is also occasionally attacking my thermometer which leads me to believe
that he might be a bit nasty to my fish / future fish.
>>Hee! He'll settle in just fine. Then he'll be having
Chromis for dinner,
thank you. Can we have a side of shrimp with that, please?
>What are your thoughts on this?
>>As above, my friend. The store owner doesn't seem to know this genus of
wrasses very well, or perhaps has been quite fortunate not to have seen at least
one going full bore. Watch the animal closely, and know that the if he should
become aggressive, it won't pass, and that in that case you'll need to make a
choice regarding what you wish to keep with good results.
>Your help is much appreciated. Regards, Simon
>>You're quite welcome, and I wish you the best of luck! Marina
Lunar Wrasse I Love You
>Dear Marina
>>Hello Simon.
>Thank you for your prompt and detailed reply regarding my lunare wrasse.
>>My pleasure, Simon.
>Okay.. there is a slight problem. It turns out that I have grown an affinity
towards my Lunare Wrasse.
>>Heh, alright.
>He is very funny - he reminds me of Homer Simpson - very clumsy and greedy.
>>Is he eyeballing your doughnuts and beer yet? I'd allow a bit of the
doughnuts, but the beer is where I'd draw the line.
>He has settled in quite nicely and has not "YET" hassled any of my
Chromis. But
given your response it sounds like that could change.
>>Yes, it could.
>-My tank is 38x18x18 with a sump/skimmer/live rock/no corals
>>Are those metric or English measurements? Hrm.
>-The lunare wrasse is about 5 inches
>-The Chromis are about 1 inch each.
>>Doesn't sound a fair match, does it? If those Chromis were dominoes,
white/black tailed, sergeant majors, or similar Dascyllus, or anything that ends
with 'devil', you'd have little to worry about.
>So my dilemma is do I take the wrasse out?
>>Not if you like him, no. But you'd probably want to pull the damsels if/when
the picking starts. Even if the tank's 38"x18" you'll be committed to a lower
fish load because the wrasse is an active, voracious animal.
>How much should I feed him? He eats like a pig.
>>Speaking of the devil, eh?
>At the moment I give him a quarter of a cube of brine shrimp and he annihilates
that. I think he wants me to upsize it but I'm not sure if I should give in?
>>I wouldn't give MORE, but I *would* give different. Silversides, krill,
squid, shrimp, octopus, etc. Also, if you can get him on a decent dry staple
food, that should help your wallet. In any event, as long as he's nice and fat,
I wouldn't give him more feed. If the area behind the head/eyes becomes sunken
looking, then you know he's not getting enough.
>Do you think I could add a tomato clown?
>>IF you took out the Chromis, most definitely. A tomato, skunk, or maroon
would all be able to hold their own.
>I have been told that they can hold their own.
>>Yes, yes you have.
>Do you think I can get turbo snails or will they get eaten?
>>I would worry for smaller snails, and 'shellfishes'
(mollusks/crustaceans/arthropods) in general with this guy. Larger specimens
may be able to hold their own, but it's not guaranteed, especially whence he
gets larger.
>I am proactively planning for a future algae bloom. I know there is one around
the corner.
>>Maybe, maybe not. It's common, but not necessarily a given.
>The alternative is to get rid of the wrasse and cut my potential losses?
>>More than one alternative. Just decide who/what you *really* want. Then go
from there. It can be sorted out, I'm sure.
>What would you do? ;)
>>If I loved the wrasse, then I'd reconsider my plan so I could keep him. I
think he'll do alright in a tank this size for a while, but do take care not to
be too generous with the food. Know, also, that the hungrier he is, the more
aggressive and less trustworthy he'll be.
>Your help is much appreciated.
Regards
Simon
>>You're welcome, Simon. It seems you may have found a friend, and wrasses
certainly aren't without strong personalities. Coloration could never be beaten
by any damsel I've ever come across, even if he never morphed into a super
male. Should you decide to keep him, get tough mates for him, but not too
many. Keep the rockwork very open, but with lots of hidey-holes for him to
explore and keep his mind occupied. He may like some sushi Nori (dried seaweed)
to nibble. The clowns are a good idea, as would be a Pseudochromis of some sort
- most come with lots of moxxie. Beyond the physical space issues, these are
fairly hardy fish in my experience, often tougher than damsels. Will you be
naming him "Homer"? Or mayhaps "Santa's Little Helper"? Marina
- Sex Changing Wrasse -
Hello to all at WWM:
About three months ago a bought a FEMALE Thalassoma lucasanum, (AKA Rainbow
Wrasse, Paddlefish Wrasse, Cortez margarita Wrasse). However, now almost 3
months later, it has changed to the male coloration, maybe into an actual male.
I did not know these fish would or even can change from the female coloration
to the male coloration. Just curious if anyone at the Crew has heard or seen of
such a thing. <There are many wrasses as well as several other groups of fish
that have this remarkable ability. It ensures the continuation of the species.
What a planet!> Either way I like both color forms. By the way, Scott Michael's
Marine Fishes pocket guide has great photos of this fish on page 319.
As always, thanks for all your time and effort.
Gene
<Cheers, J -- >
Wrasse Impasse?
Hello again crew!
<Hi there! Scott F. here today!>
Sorry in advance to bother you AGAIN!
<Never a bother!>
I have gotten myself into a predicament, it was a dumb move but can still be
undone.
<Hah! If I had a dollar for every predicament I've gotten into....>
I have a 120 gallon SW tank. On a trip to Hawaii in October I fell in love with
the Thalassoma trilobatum, Christmas Wrasse, I have been searching in vain for
months to add one to my tank. I have made TONS of calls to Hawaii even, but I
had
come up against walls at every turn and have found that this fish is near
impossible to find in the aquarium trade.
<Did you try Marine Center? They can look for one for you.>
I currently have a peaceful tank but wanted a wrasse as my dream fish. I have
plans to get a larger tank in a few months and was hoping the fish I had would
get along in the 120.
<Well, this fish can reach almost a foot in length. I'd avoid a fish of this
size and activity level in a 120 gallon tank, myself. How about a smaller
Halichoeres species, like a H. melanurus? Almost as colorful- but easier to find
and smaller.>
Currently I have a Naso Tang (which I hope to get in a 180 at least, if not I
have arrangements with the LFS to take her back (went to high school with the
owner), but currently the Naso is wonderful, fat and healthy. Her tankmates
include:
Yellowtail blue damsel, blue damsel, 2 cleaner gobies, and a bicolor angel. Oh
and last but not least I have 2 shrimp, Popcorn the fire shrimp, and Scampi the
skunk shrimp.
<Love that name!>
I have become very attached to them but realize that they will
probably have to go back to the LFS. Man this is getting long winded! Sorry.
My problem is this, I bought a Klunzinger's Wrasse at the LFS, they've been
getting in wrasses by the week for me in hopes they'd find one that would be
close to my dream fish. This one is the closest, it's about 6 inches long, and
gorgeous. Before I brought it home I looked at your website and could only find
that they came from the Red Sea. I searched online and couldn't find
anything. I checked in with Scott Michaels book & Bob's CMA and found nothing.
So I bought it and it's currently in my QT tank. I called 4 LFS's, no one had
any advice and hadn't ever had one before, the store I got them at told me it
was
a peaceful fish like a Scott's fairy, which just watching him eat I know is way
off base. So my question is what do you know about this fish, what would have
to be removed for him to live in my tank, I also had a Brazilian Gramma on my
list, will any of these be able to live together?
<I must say that I have never personally kept this fish, but have known
hobbyists who have kept them. I'm not certain of the Scientific name, which will
help you find out much more information. They do tend to be a bit "rowdy" at
times, and they do eat aggressively once they settle in. If you know the genus
and species, you'd do well to check on fishbase.org for more detailed
information on the fish than I could provide here.>
Is my tank going to be over stalked or any you advise me who might be some other
fish to add, I feel pressured to get whatever I'm going to get in the tank, as I
know this one will be the most aggressive of the group.
<Don't feel pressured by anyone to get any fish. You are in charge! Besides,
we're talking about living creatures, and no one else should tell you what to
do!>
I haven't added anyone new to tank for a while so they're a pretty tight knit
group. I know the shrimp will have to go, but will the Gobies be a lite snack
too? Where can I go to find out more
about my new fishy? ><{{{{"> Thanks so much! Amy
<As above- fishbase.org. That should give you some good scientific information
and a means to search for more hobby-based information. Also, make use of
WetWebMedia's chat forum. Other hobbyists who keep this fish may have some
better information. Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>
Wrasse impasse?
Oops sorry about that last e mail with no message!
<Wondered what was going on in the wide, wide world of sports!>
Thanks so much for
getting back to me so quickly. And just to answer a few questions, I have tried
Marine Center, I was told that these fish live close to the shore and no one can
catch fish from that area. I believe it was Jeff there, really great friendly
people! Also I wasn't feeling pressured by anyone to buy more for the tank,
it was my own pressure. I was trying to add in the more docile creatures
before putting the wrasse in my tank, so I felt like I had to hurry and get
everything I'd want in there and add him in last. But I now have another
question
for you, how about a Paddlefin wrasse, also colorful but considerably smaller.
Are they as aggressive or would my shrimp be safe with them?
<Not as aggressive as some other species of wrasses, even other Thalassoma spp.,
but not safe with shrimps>
I'm hopelessly
addicted to wrasses and would have a wrasse only tank if it were possible but I
have a lot of trouble finding info on them. I check out Fishbase.org all the
time but they don't have much in the way of info for hobbyist (is that a
word?)
<Spelled hobbyist, yes>
Scott Michael lives right here in town
<Lincoln, Nebraska>
but his book doesn't cover a lot of
wrasse species, any idea where I might find more info so I can make an
informed decision? I have been trying to find Rudie Kuiter's wrasse book but
haven't been able to order it from Barnes & Noble.
<Try Amazon.com... and SeaChallengers.com>
Thanks again for all your help &
insight! You guys have been a Godsend! Thank you so much for giving so much
time and dedication to this site! I'm a WetWeb junky, I read it daily!
Amy
<Glad to share. Bob Fenner>
Wacky Wrasse?
Howdy, I bought a Lunare Wrasse 2 days ago. When I was vacuuming the wrasse got a little frisky, and hopped out of the tank. I got him back in after about 45 seconds to one minute. It was a close one, but now he just lays there and breathes. All of his color is still there, and my chemicals are pristine.
<Given time, he can make a full recovery. keep an eye on him, and make sure that he eats. Continue to maintain excellent water quality>
Also, is it normal for a wrasse to lay around except for the outbursts of energy where he shoots around the tank and eats? Jeffery
<Yep- wrasses are known for some of their wacky antics. If there are no disease signs, and the water parameters are as good as you say- I'd chalk it up to typical wrasse
behavior. Given what your wrasse went through, I'd say that he has a good chance at a full recovery. Good luck! Regards, Scott F>
- Wrasse Photos -
Hello
I am a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard. I study gene expression in
the brain and how it influences behaviors. I have a small
collaboration going with a student who wants to look at the change in gene
expression in the brains of wrasse as they change sex. I am writing
grants to secure funding for this project and I am looking for photos of
Bluehead and Cortez Rainbow wrasse. I have found some nice ones on
the web but I would like to have some high resolution images. If
possible I would like to find some that include both males and females in a
natural setting. Do you have something available that fits this
description, I couldn't find any hi-res to download for these fish on your
site...? <Please give our photo site a look, http://www.wetwebfotos.com
- if you find anything here you can use, I'll gladly give you access to the
high-res versions of the images. Just email me back the image numbers you need
and we'll get this taken care of.>
Thanks
Suzy
<Cheers, J -- >
Bluehead Wrasse, Or, "You BETTER Watch Your Wrasse!"
>Hello,
>>Hello.
>I recently set-up an 85 gallon fish only saltwater aquarium. It
contains about 60lbs. of live sand and about 40lbs. of lace rock. It
is equipped with a large protein skimmer and 2 Whisper 5s. There is 0
ammonia, 0 nitrite, and very low nitrates.
>>Alright.
Right now I have the following fish:
1 Yellow Tang (3 inches)
1 Clark Clown (3 inches)
1 Tomato Clown (3 inches)
1 Black and White Striped Damsel (1inch)
1 Blue Damsel (2 inches)
(Both the Clownfish get along fine)
>>Whew! Let's hope it stays that way, they should have enough
elbow room in there, though.
>I recently added a (5 inch) Blue-Headed Wrasse to the system.
>>Uh oh, trouble in paradise?
>How big will this fish get? The dealer told me up to 8 inches. Is
this true?
>>Ok, not being positive of the species you're calling "blue
head", my first inclination is to think of one of two wrasses, both will
hit about that size, and one of them was known to me by a most UNflattering
moniker, relating to one particular nickname of Richard ("Richard"head
wrasse), taught to me by my favorite old-timer. He was
RIGHT. This fish was aggressive, and constantly harassing other fish.
>If it will eventually become incompatible I am willing to change the tank
mates.
>>It *may*, again, I can't be positive. Of the fish you have in
there, I would expect the clowns to be the first to develop sufficient moxie to
deal with him, possibly the tang, definitely the Dascyllus once they hit panfry
size.
>Right now it shows no sign of aggression. Also I was thinking of
adding a Kole or Scopas Tang.
>>I would expect either of those fish to be too timid to deal well with
the wrasse I'm thinking of, of course, it would be more helpful to both of us if
you could get a positive ID on him/her.
>If I rearrange the decor and purchase a slightly smaller specimen then the
tang in the tank already could it work?
>>You would have to purchase a specimen of significantly different size,
and considering their personalities, I would get one at least 5", NOT
smaller than the present yellow tang.
>Food would not be an issue because I usually add fresh macroalgae from a
large refugium every week. Thank you, Dennis
>>AWESOME! We like that (refugia AND feeding your fish fresh
macros.. yum!). Marina
Bluehead Wrasse, Or, "You BETTER Watch Your Wrasse!" II
>Thank you for being so quick and answering my questions. I
have been looking on your website and found the scientific name of the wrasse. Thalassoma
bifasciatum. Again thank you so much for your help. Dennis
>>Excellent, I'm very glad I could be of help. Marina
Confusing Wrasse
Hi guys:
I have a Lunar wrasse bought from the LFS 3 weeks ago. For about 2
weeks was eating vigorously. Over the last week, has grown very
finicky. Won't eat Mysis shrimp anymore (eats and then spits it out). And
may eat whole shrimp (with shell) sometimes (bangs it against a rock, very
cool).
<Yep- I've seen that behavior- it IS cool!>
No change in behavior (still all over the tank). We
have noticed that its color has become more green in the last few
weeks (don't most of them go the other way) so am worried that the sex is
changing. (A) is that possible? (B) any chance that is
causing the lack of food take? Do I need to vary the food even more?
<Female-to male sex changes are common. Color changes do happen...These
fishes start out as relatively dull juveniles, and really start to color up when
they reach adulthood...As for providing a variety of foods: I've never seen a
fish that won't benefit from this!>
Tank specs:
90g Fish Only Wet Dry with Sump
ETS 300 Skimmer (was originally a reef tank)
2-3" Sand bed
No nitrates, ammonia, tank very well cycled
Salinity is high 1.025-1.026 but maintained constant with a NURCE top
off device
Lots of rock and hiding places
Other inhabitants:
Majestic Snapper
Koran Angel
Baby Clown trigger
<Wow! These are some potentially very large fishes...Please, please consider
the "end game" here, and plan on much larger (like several hundred
gallons) housing for them in the near future, if you expect them to live
anything close to a natural life span...>
Thanks in advance for help!
<You're welcome! Scott F>
Klunzinger Wrasse
What's your opinion of the Klunzinger Wrasse? Hardy?
<Can be... in a largish system (more than a hundred gallons) with very good
(brisk!) water circulation... IF one can find an initially healthy specimen...
they take a beating in collection, holding, shipping>
From the Red Sea?
<Yes, the best>
Easy to keep in captivity?
<Most don't live a month... due to the above points>
How large do they get in an aquarium?
<Six to eight inches>
Temperament?
<Rough and tumble... okay around all but the smallest fishes, will eat
shrimps, crabs... perhaps other sessile invertebrates if hungry>
Thanks for
your help. Was thinking of getting one in the 4 inch range.
<A good fish for an advanced aquarist. Bob Fenner>
Elizabeth K. Birdwell
Bluehead wrasse, and a mystery critter.
07/20/03
<Hi Fred, PF here>
So here's a question for you...
If I put 2 terminal phase blueheads in a 90 gal what will happen? I
suspect that they will just fight but wondered if it was possible for one of
them to revert back to a previous phase.
Now here's the real question...
I went out snorkeling today in S. Florida and found what I would have to call a
worm of some kind. Its small <2" and dark green/brown. It
looks like a little cuke, but it moves by sucking in a big ball of water at one
end and moving it through to the other end. It looks like the little
guy keeps swallowing a marble twice as big around as him. It has a
pinkish snout of some kind that extends out of one end. When I first
saw it, it was not all stretched out and it looked just like a snail. That's
what I thought it was until I got back to the boat for a closer look. When
I fist picked it up it was kind of hard too (like a snail) or at least very
firm, but it can and does get very squishy too.
Any idea what this thing might be?
As usual, thanks a million for this fantastic web site and oracle of marine
knowledge you guys run.
Fred
<Well Fred, I wouldn't recommend putting them together, they could well kill
each other before working out the hierarchy.
As for the mystery critter, your guess is as good as mine. There are hundreds of
thousands of undocumented species out there. It sounds like some kind of worm to
me. I'd say take a picture, or the specimen itself to a local university and see
if someone in their bio department can't help you. Have a good night, PF>
Wrasse id
I am wondering what kind of wrasse this is, can you help me?
<Of all things... we're currently out at the Hawai'i house, and this is
the most common fish on the reefs here... and an endemic. Please see here
re: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/thalassoma.htm
Bob
Fenner>
Thanks, Codie |
|
Wrasse ID
I just sent an email earlier and I still am not sure of the wrasse that I
have? It the Thalassoma dupery or the Thalassoma grammacticum or is
it
neither? I believe the fish has not matured yet. see attachment.
<It's the former. Pls see the previous citation. Bob Fenner>
Thank you for your help, Codie
|
|
|
A Reef Safe Wrasse 5/27/03
Are the lunar or sometimes call ed moon wrasse reef
safe?
<Around corals they are fine. But they may nip at crustaceans
and small invertebrates.>
Thanks Michelle
<No problem! Phil>
Pass On The Wrasse?
Hello
<Hey there! Scott F. with you today!>
Hope you all survived Valentine's Day!
<Squeaked by another one!>
Just a couple quick questions for you guys. Although I have read as
much as I possibly can on these wrasses, I still have a couple questions. First
one is the "surge wrasse" I've only seen one at a LFS (Alberta) and am
wondering how they normally ship? I would like to order one (for my
7' FO tank) but the LFS tells me they can't get them in any smaller then a
foot? Are these fish as hardy and aggressive as the other Thalassoma
species?
<Well, I am not positive as to which species you are referring to (the common
name may apply to a few species in this genus...), however, my experience with
the Thalassoma wrasses is that they ship fairly well, adapt to captive life
quite readily, and do get quite aggressive over time! I tend to favor smaller
specimens, so I, personally, would pass on a fish that's a foot in length...Try
to get a much smaller one. If you cannot locate one at the LFS, maybe you could
try contacting Marine Center (see our home page for their link), and they may be
able to secure one for you. If you can get the scientific name of this species,
I may be able to find some more specific information for you>
Also, would putting a checkerboard wrasse (4"fish, 180 g.t.) be safe in my
reef tank? I feed 4 - 6 times daily. How much do these guys like
fanworms?? Probably a individual thing, hey?
<Gosh- sorry...Once again, there are a few species that go by this common
name.. If you could supply genus and/or species name I could provide some
information...On a general basis, if you're talking about an Anampses species,
I'd say that you're taking a huge gamble with your inverts, IMO. If it's the
Halichoeres hortulanus, once again, I'd say it' a role of the dice...Some
couldn't care less about your fanworms, others will simply decimate them! If you
are keeping it well-fed, you certainly have a better chance, but it's your call
on this one! And believe me- these little guys are just about impossible to
remove from a reef tank...proceed with caution!>
Last question! How do I properly quarantine fish like Mandarins and certain
wrasses that basically won't really take prepared foods but need live
rock? I have a bare bottom 40 gal with no live rock (like to keep the
salinity down)?
<Good question! I usually quarantine these guys with some very small
"rubble" pieces of rock, which I will rotate out every few
days...There usually is not enough living stuff on these small rocks to sustain
the fish, so I make it a point to harvest some amphipods from the refugium (a
tedious process most of the time!) and dump a bunch in every day...The high
level of care is just another reason why you have to be up to the challenge when
keeping these guys!>
Thank you so much, you guys are truly the biggest help ever!!
Lynn
<Well thanks, Lynn! And our readers are the best, too! Take care! regards,
Scott F>
A Lunar Phase?
Hi there.
<Good morning! Scott F. here!>
I have a quick question for you, that I didn't find any info on your site
about. I set up a 209G tank several months ago and is now home to a
couple of baby triggers (3 inch Niger, 2 inch Queen, and 4 inch Blue line),
"true" Black Volitans Lion (pitch black!), and a Arothron manilensis
puff.
<Wow! That's a lot of fish that get HUGE in one tank, even a large one. These
are pretty messy eaters, too, and can degrade water quality in no time if you
don't stay on top of things (but I know that YOU will, right?) You may need to
move everyone around for the long term in order for this community to work. The
Queen Trigger is absolutely one of the nastiest fishes around...do keep an eye
on the interactions in this tank as the fishes mature..>
Today at a LFS I work at a guy brought in a 4 inch Lunare or Moon
Wrasse. I bought him from him for only 5 dollars since he has HLLE
(didn't know wrasses could get it, but I guess anything is possible).
<Yep- just about any fish can contract this malady>
I know how to cure it and the 209 tank gets Formula One, Formula Two,
Brine Shrimp Plus, Prime Reef, VHP Formula, Angel Formula, and Spirulina Formula
all in the Variety Pack made by Ocean Nutrition.
<All great foods- good choices! remember, water quality is also thought to
play a role in HLLE, so be sure to keep on top of water changes and other
maintenance relentlessly!>
I figure this should cure it in no time. But the question is my boss
said it is possible to keep a male female pair together in a large tank (Scott
W. Michael also states this in his Marine Fish book).
<Yes- I've seen it done before>
We just got a 1.5inch baby Lunare in at my store. So if I were to add
the smaller one would they pair up or would they fight?
<Wow- really hard to say...could work, or could be a problem, due to the size
disparity. also- there is the outside possibility that this little one could
become "trigger food" in this tank...Personally, I'd think long term
(particularly about how 3-4 fishes that can potentially reach 15-20 inches will
live in this situation), and really avoid adding any more fishes to this tank.
What a great excuse to set up another large tank! :). Seriously, you seem like a
keen observer and fish lover, so I hope that you'll take this long-term view and
make good decisions>
Sadly, our store has not had good luck with the Lunare's
but the one I got today is doing great. He is very active and is like
a sky blue neon kinda color. Thanks for any help
provided. Kim
<Once again, Kim-I'd hold off on the purchase. Enjoy the fishes that you have
now...Think about another tank in the future. Best of luck! Scott F.>
Mexican wrasse in hiding
Background: 55 gallon (fully cycled), 2 clowns, 1 Firefish, 1 Rabbitfish,
and 1 wrasse with about 18 pounds of live rock and good water conditions. I have
a Mexican (Cortez, Rock, Rainbow) Wrasse for about 6 weeks now. The
first 2 weeks he was always visibly swimming around the tank and never hiding -
then I added some (more) live rock and did a little rearranging in the
tank. The wrasse now hides for the past 4 weeks. I have
peeked around
the corner when the lights are off in the room and I know he is alive and has
very good color... as soon as I put the lights on or he sees me he bolts back
into his hiding place (a fake plastic sponge (I think) coral, where one
of the fingers broke off allowing him access to swim into the base) and won't
come out. My question - he is a beautiful fish and I enjoyed watching
him swim for the first 2 weeks so what can I do to get his behavior back to
that state.
<Likely not much that is easy to do... this fish lives in quite large haremic
settings... lots of space... and lots of others (especially females) of its own
kind. If you had a larger system (a few hundred gallons) you might be able to
somewhat replicate more natural conditions, and hence behavior... If you can
place this fish in at least twice the current volume, adding a female or two
would likely induce the male to become (return to being) more outgoing. Bob
Fenner>
Thank you so much for your help with.
Mexican wrasse in hiding
Bob, thank you so much for your prompt response! Your WetWebMedia
site is a
tremendous resource to us newbies starving for legitimate direction in our
efforts and avoid disastrous mistakes. Further to my question on my
hiding
Mexican Rock Wrasse, I saw a FAQ on a similar situation (see excerpt faq
below). Do you think if I add a Damsel in my tank that he may
stimulate the
Wrasse to come out of hiding? Thanks again for your inputs and keep
up the
great site for us!!!
<Thank you my friend, and yes to the attempt at adding a ditherfish. This is
likely the best thing you can do presently to encourage your Thalassoma to be
more outgoing. Bob Fenner>
EXCERPT FAQ:
I have a 65 gallon reef tank with only 4 fish--maroon clown with anemone,
yellow watchman goby, African Flameback angel, and a purple tang. The former
2 understandably do not swim around very much, but the latter 2 seem to hide
all day.
I see the fish only when I feed. I have A LOT of live rock in my tank
though. Are they just indirectly hiding?
<Indirectly? All should come out to some extent... Is there much
"activity"
around the area, folks walking by during the day? Perhaps a very active
"dither-fish" like a hardy Damselfish species would do well to make
all more
outgoing. Consider A four or three stripe or others:
http://wetwebmedia.com/damsels.htm
One that stays smallish>
Or do they just need to be enticed out into the open by more social fish?
<Ah! There you go>
The tank is fully stocked with corals and my cleaning regimen is very
pristine. What should I do so I can see more of my fish?
<Try a/the dither fish idea here. Bob Fenner>
Re: Mexican wrasse in hiding
You (and the web site) are amazing! I went home last Friday night
and anxiously added a ("dither fish") four stripe Damsel as you
recommended, and my Wrasse has returned after not seeing him for over 4 weeks -
incredible. Thank you so much!
<You are welcome David. Bob Fenner>
Are Blue Leg Hermits subject to predation by a Lunare Wrasse?
<Yes>
I put one of these into my tank and suddenly all of my hermits have
disappeared.
<Into his belly>
They've been living very happily in their FOWLR 55 gallon home with a Yellow
Tang, a Clark's Anemone fish, a 3 Stripe Damsel, a Niger Trigger and a Blue
Green Chromis. I also have a Chocolate Chip Starfish, a Serpent Star and a bunch
of Astrea Snails.
Thanks, Ana M. Saavedra
<You are welcome. -Steven Pro>
Thalassoma Lucasanum
Bob,
<<Actually, JasonC today...>>
I have two female Thalassoma lucasanum. One of them is going through a sex
change from female to male (it's really very interesting).
<<Indeed.>> Is there any chance that they will mate?
<<Certainly a possibility, but not guaranteed - the right conditions may
not exist in a captive system.>> If so, is there anything I can do to help
insure the survival of the offspring? <<Probably not... I'm not sure that
there's ever been any success at breeding these in captivity.>> I also
have a yellow tang, a maroon clown, and an assortment of damsels (blue fin, blue
devil and green Chromis) in my aquarium.
Thanks,
Rich
<<Cheers, J -- >>
Wrasse and angel
hi guys,
2 Quick questions. Tank is 72"x18"x18". Home to my Asfur angel
and volitans lion. Each about 2.5 to 3".
(1). I know how big Asfurs get in the wild, but how big is he likely to get in
my tank, given an average diet and water quality.
<About eight inches standard length, ten overall (ends of unpaired fins)...
six in a year... the rest within two likely>
(2). I love a lunare wrasse (Thalassoma lunare). If I got a small one, is he
likely to cause havoc.
<Should be fine with the Asfur. Bob Fenner>
I had one before, but I was very inexperienced, and I made the mistake of him
being one of the first introductions to the tank ..... as he result he was a bit
of a bully.
Cheers,
Matt
Re: wrasse and angel
Thanks Bob.
Good to hear from you :-)
The Thalassoma lunare ..... how about the lion fish.... likely to
"pick" at him.... at the moment, the lion is quite
"aggressive" in terms of feeding, and he actually has a go at the
Asfur now and then.
<The Lionfish may get big and bold enough to try inhaling the Wrasse, and the
Lunare might pick on it in return, but I give you good odds here that they will
get along. Bob Fenner>
Cheers,
Matt
Wrasses
I have two female Rainbow Wrasses and was thinking of adding a male Banana
Wrasse. I know there should only be one male wrasse per tank, but would like to
know how mixing a different variety of wrasse would affect the mix.
<Mmm, how large a system is this? How big are your current Thalassoma
wrasses? If the system is 100 or more gallons, has few other fishes, should be
okay. Bob Fenner>
Thanks, Rich
Wrasses
Hello Bob!
<Hi Kat>
Recently purchased a lunare wrasse, juvenile, for my 75 gallon tank. Other
occupants are 2 damsels, 2 Clarkii clowns, 1 lawnmower blenny, 1 cleaner wrasse,
1 Sebae anemone, 1 sand sifting starfish , turbo snails, emerald crabs, and
several hermit crabs. My question is this: I had a cleaner shrimp in my tank, he
has mysteriously vanished without a trace, and most of my hermits are gone now
too. I have had the Lunare for only 2 weeks, could it have eaten these items? P
<Yes my friend. Expensive meals, lesson. Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/thalassoma.htm
and particularly the FAQs associated with this page>
lease let me know as soon as possible before I add anything else to my tank.
Thank you!
Kat
<Be chatting! Bob Fenner>
Lunare Wrasse, small, starving
Hi Bob,
I have a Lunare Wrasse in a 55 gal. tank with a Percula Clownfish, two three
striped black and white Damsels, and a Triggerfish. They have all gotten along
quite well for almost three years. I keep a very clean tank with 10 gallon
monthly water changes. I have had no problems at all with my tank or fish. Now,
in the last week, my Lunare Wrasse has stopped eating and has gotten very
thin.
<Not good...>
I called up my Aquarium retail store professionals and described what was
happening. I told them that my Lunare Wrasse stopped eating, acted like he was
blind to the food, was lethargic and laying around although not buried. I even
tried to hand feed him with no luck. He gets excited when I go by the tank and
when it is feeding time and will start swimming around acting like he wants to
eat. But when I introduce the food (and believe me, I have tried to entice him
with a different variety), he will act like he wants to eat, but then acts like
he can't find the food, kind of like a brain disorder. The retail store owner
said to test the water with an OHM reading and see if there is an electrical
current running through the water. I did, and found nothing. He is only 4 inches
long, so I suspect that rules out old age, since I was told that he should live
to be 8-10 inches long. What can I do for him? He has good coloring and no signs
of anything else wrong with him, except he has gotten really skinny and
emaciated looking. I have tried everything I know, and I want to do whatever I
can to save him. Please help!
Sincerely,
Dorry
<Thalassoma wrasses do go on starvation bouts from time to time... and can
die from same... I suspect something in the way of an internal parasite
problem... but if the animal won't eat, it becomes very difficult to try and
treat for same. In the circumstances you list (small specimen, prolonged
starvation period) I might risk the damage/trauma of force feeding this animal,
catching it in a net and holding it with a wet towel in the net, shoving meaty
food diced up into its mouth. First, do try a dip/bath in seawater (in a
separate container) with a tablespoon of Epsom Salts (magnesium sulfate) per
gallon, for a duration of ten minutes (to flush out the animals G.I. tract), and
the next day, place either a whole small "cocktail shrimp" (sans shell
and sauce) or an opened bivalve/clam in the system to see if it will take it. If
you have them, add liquid vitamins to the foods and water. Bob Fenner>
Problem wrasse
I have a lunar wrasse in my 55 gal tank. Was other damsels and I previously
had yellow tangs who died . I am new to this. So here is my dilemma. My wrasse
is a creep. Thinks he's king of the world.
<S/he may well be king of his/her world>
I added a spotted grouper last week he did fine for a few days then started to
get pale looking. Luckily my pet store lady is a great person she had me bring
him in back into the same tank he was before and he is doing much better now.
Come to find out my wrasse was beating him up. He (the grouper) had been in the
same tank at her store for quite awhile before I got him he is sharing this
space with a Huma Huma trigger. As soon as he was put back in his original tank
the Huma went up to him and rubbed against him almost like he missed him! The
grouper is doing so much better by the next day his eyehole wrasse boy must have
socked him) looked much better and his coloring was back. Anyway any suggestions
on what to do with Mr. wrasse?
<Your tank is too small for two "alpha" fishes... You could trade
it in or place sub-dominant animals with it>
She says I can bring him back and trade for something else but I really like the
way he looks. But I don't want him to be problematic with anyone I put in there.
We want to ad a porcupine puffer and nigger trigger in this tank. I would also
like my grouper back. Could part of the problem with him been having at all to
do with separating him and the Huma?
<Doubtful>
Should they be bought as a pair? I plan on by the middle of this summer
switching to larger tank to be sure of room for these fellows. But I don't want
a tank with only one wrasse and few crabs. Any suggestions would be greatly
appreciated! Thank you Nanci Cowman
<You might try removing the wrasse, placing the bass for a week or two...
then replacing the wrasse to see if a new hierarchical dynamic can be
established... but eventually you will need/want a larger system. My real advice
is to start over with a workable stocking plan for your 55. Please read through
here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/MarInd3of6.htm on the articles and FAQs files
on stocking marine systems. Bob Fenner>
SOLAR OR PADDLEFIN Wrasse
Hey Anthony,
<Cheers, mate>
I did finally ID that wrasse I described to you. It is indeed a
Paddlefin, but it has not changed into it's striking adult colors yet.
<indeed funny how they call females and lesser males by other common names...
a quirky throwback to when they thought the two very different color morphs were
distinct species>
My LFS says that the Paddlefin is much less likely to attack my cleaner
and coral banded shrimp then others in the Thalassoma genus. He said
they should be okay.
<I don't necessarily agree or disagree. Just watch closely>
He also had a beautiful Solar wrasse that came in
on Tues. I KNOW that one would not be a threat, but I'm concerned it's
too passive.
<agreed...too passive. But what a magnificent fish! Even if not directly
harassed by the Paddlefin, the mere presence and activity of the dominant fish
can force the solar into competing poorly and dwindling over time>
What do you think about the hardiness/ pros and cons of
each of these fish. One thing to take into account is that the new
Paddlefin I'm looking at came in Tues with the Solar.
<the solor is a great fish with the right tankmates (generally passive)...
but it couldn't compare to the incredible hardiness of the Paddlefin. A sturdy
fish. But two very different fish. By any measure... the Paddlefin is for a fish
only tank and the solar is a reef tank fish>
This Paddlefin is much closer to his adult color, but he's very timid about
eating just yet (normal obviously).....
<not really for this species... they are remarkable fish... I have had few
imports eating offered food in a freshwater bath!!! Keep an eye on this
specimen. Are they feeding it crustacean fare (Mysid, Pacifica plankton,
shredded krill, etc?)>
the Solar is eating very aggressively.
<I personally would take the solar... Paddlefins are rather common and
despite their wonderful hardiness, they get rowdy as they get older. The solar
is good with just about anything that won't eat it <smile>>
Thanks pal, Rick
<quite welcome, my friend. Anthony>
Re: SOLAR OR PADDLEFIN
Morning Anthony.
<Cheers, my friend>
I agree with you on the Solar Wrasse, however on Sat I picked the Paddlefin.
<indeed a great fish, all told>
When I went back the Paddlefin was eating with the gusto that you described.
<yes, hardy, colorful and meaty.. a great FO species>
Based on pure looks, future size, "commonness", the Solar was the
better choice,
but I picked the Paddlefin because my tank is pretty much fish only. Their are
a few inverts but it can be a tough place. The Solar was so gorgeous and I
couldn't justify taking a chance that it would be pinned in the corner or
something.
<you are very correct... easily intimidated... good to trust your intuition
about your tank/fish>
The Paddlefin was bigger and faster. It hasn't shown any interest
in my cleaner or coral banded shrimp "yet"....is that a good
indication of
things to come or could he turn on a dime?
<alas. the latter>
Of all my fish to give this new
wrasse trouble.......my tiny little jewel damsel! He's relentless!
<tiny? If you haven't already, look up the scientific name for this fish
yellow-tailed adult fish (Microspathodon chrysurus).. a huge beast and quite a
color change. ferocious, indeed!>
I can't
believe that the Paddlefin won't turn the table in a day or two.
<it might be like the big dog afraid of the tenacious little dog...hehe>
Thanks for all your help. Rick
<very welcome, my friend. Anthony>
Longnose Butterfly (Thalassoma Wrasse)
Thanks Anthony,
<very welcome, good sir>
I kind of knew that would be your take on things.
<I have had a reputation as a bit of a marine Nazi...hehe>
However I must VERY respectfully disagree with you on the compatibility of my
Levi (Eibli) angel and my Emperor, and tangs. The tangs totally ignore the small
angel and the Emperor only occasionally chases him as if he was a pesky fly or
something....nothing ever malicious or sustained. The Levi merely gets out of
his way and the confrontation is over.
<I respect and appreciate the difference of opinion>
Anyway, point taken on the butterfly and tank size. Trust me my friend, I know I
will need to upgrade and I look forward to doing so.
<I believe it to be try... a wonderfully addictive hobby! I'm still thinking
about sealing up the basement with glass doors and windows and just filling it
with seawater...perhaps I'll cut a whole in the ceiling and view/service the
tank via a PVC fireman's pole from upstairs...hehe>
I'm going to avoid the flame wrasse and all butterflies as per your advice.
However I "may" still add one more fish. Perhaps you would be willing
to help me ID this fish. I'm looking at a smallish wrasse that they're calling a
Paddlefin Wrasse? I can't find it on WWM, but it had the body of a Lunare
(perhaps a slightly rounder face). It's white with about 3 navy blue-black
horizontal strips. There is some red on the dorsal fin.
<hmmmm... the Paddlefin wrasse as it is commonly known in the trade sounds
nothing like what you describe. The LFS may have a mis-ID fish. Also known as
the Cortez Rainbow wrasse or Mexican Rock wrasse...only the males of the species
(Thalassoma lucasanum) are called Paddlefins. Do look up this species to see if
we can rule it out. If your fish looks similar enough in type that you still
suspect it to be a Thalassoma sp like T. lunare and T. lucasanum...then I would
agree that it is not even close to being reef safe>
My LFS guy says it's reef compatible but I'm not
buying that just yet as it is certainly not a fairy wrasse. I don't have a reef
but I do have a couple of cleaner shrimp. Do you know what this wrasse is and if
so is it a threat to my shrimp?
<the shrimp are fair game for the Thalassoma and all larger wrasse genera>
Thanks Anthony. Rick
<quite welcome! kindly, Anthony>
PS. My LFS would have had me keep the yellow tang AND add the wrasse and then
some.
<yes.. they think they will make more money by selling more fish to folks in
the short run, but the truth is that they will sell more fish to successful
aquarists that don't struggle and stay in the hobby>
I truly feel I can add another fish with no problem. I'm upgrading next winter.
<I will trust your intuition and good husbandry>
Adopted Wrasse
Hi Mr. Fenner,
It's a pleasure to speak with you. I've acquired a Cortez rainbow wrasse from
a person at work yesterday who is moving and needed to get rid of her live
stock. It is currently in my 20 gallon tank because I wasn't sure if it could
be in my 55gallon reef with invertebrates. Any husbandry you can tell me
about this fish and compatibility would be greatly appreciated. I did a
search and couldn't find much at all.
Thanks,
Ken
<This fish is a typical "go getter" for the genus (Please read:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/thalassoma.htm). It will try, eventually eat many
small crustaceans, worms, possibly mollusks in home aquarium settings... once
acclimated, makes a hardy, interesting specimen. Bob Fenner>
Re: Help???
Dear Jason,
Thanks so much for the helpful info. <<absolutely my pleasure.>>
Just to clarify -- are you saying that my Rock wrasse (which I'm hoping he's
really that! -- he doesn't look like the picture on your website. . . he's got
about 4-5 horizontal rows of different colors -- pink, green, yellow???)really
isn't happy in the tank? <<well ok, looking at wrasses that match that
description... can't seem to find one, did you search through the WWM Wrasse
pages to see if you can find a match? Likely this one has had the wrong name
applied - and if this is the case, then my previous statement about this fish
not liking tropical temperatures would be moot. http://www.wetwebmedia.com/wrasses.htm
>>
Speaking of cool water, we recently did increase our temperature to 79
degrees when our local store told us that we were keeping the tank too cold at
74. <<74 is cool, but anywhere in the range of 72 - 80F should be
good.>> Could this increase in heat be the reason he is changing colors
sometimes? <<Yes, perhaps, good to take this adjustment slowly - a degree
or two each 24 hours.>> How do you know if he's "happy" or not?
<<Is it eating? Interacting with other fish, decor, rocks - looking at you
- or is it completely clamped up in a corner by a heater never coming out to eat
or see its surroundings. These are generalities of course, but it should the
fish should be out, about, and eating - color changes mean all kinds of things -
mood, etc. Perhaps make your way to a public aquarium if you can so you can see
the same in a different surrounding.>> Could it really be him growing into
adulthood because he is getting larger and larger by the day -- growing very
fast. <<always a possibility >> (Please excuse my stupidity. . I'm
VERY new to this!) <<not stupid at all, a very valid
question.>>
I gather that you agree to leave the Clown alone and see what happens.
Until then don't add more fish? <<yes>> However, he's getting
increasingly better each day -- once the white spots are gone for good can I
assume he is well? <<not really a safe assumption, is why you need to
leave and watch for a couple of weeks - make certain.>>
At what point is it safe to introduce another fish? <<personally, I never
introduce more than one animal in a month unless they are tiny. I just like to
take it slow and see what happens, give everything time to adjust.>>
One more question (sorry if I'm overwhelming you) would you recommend a
fresh water dip for any new fish before you introduce them into the family tank?
<<not overwhelmed yet. as long as you pH adjust the freshwater,
yes.>>
Thanks so much! I'm so glad I found your website! It's a great source of
knowledge! :)
<<Glad you enjoy the website, although it's not actually mine, I just hang
out here. Cheers, J -- >>
Re: Help???
Oh My Gosh! This is so exciting! I researched the wrasse family on the
wetwebsite and found a picture of the one that I have! She is a Thalassoma
Lucasanum (rainbow wrasse)! This is the neat part. . . I found a picture of
the female and that is definitely what I have, BUT, I found a picture of the
MALE and he looks like what my female looks like when she changes color!!!!!
I did further research and found out that the female rainbow wrasse is able
to change sexes during her lifetime! This must be what is happening!
<What a planet!>
This is so cool! Thanks so much for your help!!! :)
<Be chatting and diving. Bob Fenner>
Wrasses
Can you recommend a good wrasse of the genus Thalassoma for a 55 gallon
tank? I was thinking about a Paddlefin or a Bluehead-how big do these species
get and how hardy are they? Thanks for any help you can provide, I have not been
to successful on finding quality information.
TJ
<Both these species are covered on our site (WetWebMedia.com) under the genus
name... and am out in the Bahamas right now trying to get better pix of the
latter! Bob Fenner>
Lunare Wrasse and hippo tang fighting!
Just wanted to say first that your book "The Conscientious Marine
Aquarist" is the greatest saltwater fish book out. I really enjoyed it and
I still use it all the time.
<Glad to find ones work of use>
Now, I have a 150 gallon fish only tank and it contains a yellow and Naso tang,
emperor angel changing), Koran angel small), and a lunare wrasse(7"). I have
a 30g QT that I had to put my hippo tang in because the wrasse and him fought
relentlessly-and this is after being together for about 6 months! The wrasse had
puncture wounds all over him and the hippo had all of his fins frayed from the
wrasse biting him. Are these two fish not compatible?
<Not these two! Larger Thalassoma wrasses can be very tough on animals they
perceive utilizing similar habitat, foods. Perhaps a smaller Lunare would have
mixed in okay.>
I tried to put the hippo back in after a month and the same thing happened
immediately! The hippo tang is about 5". I also have plenty of coral dead)
and hiding places. Thanks, Kevin Ballard
<Looks like it has to be just one or the other. Perhaps another wrasse
species? Please see the review of the Labrids on our site: www.WetWebMedia.com
for much more. Bob Fenner>
Wrasses
I would like to add a sand diving wrasse to my 55 FOWLR and a 4 inch sandbed.
Currently I have a 5 inch marine Betta, 3 inch Fu Manchu Lionfish, a 3 inch
maroon clown, and a 2 inch Valentini puffer. Can you please recommend a
species that would thrive at adult size in this tank. I was thinking of a
smaller Thalassoma species.
thanks, Everett
<Hmm, some of the Thalassoma might do... but do look at the genus Halichoeres...
particularly the ever-popular H. ornatissimus as a candidate. This latter genus'
members don't get quite as big or rambunctious... for your 55 and other marine
life, a plus. Bob Fenner, who suggests reading through the genera and images on
www.wetwebmedia.com and supplying a "tray" (chemically inert... glass
or plastic) of fine coral sand for your new "digger".>
Bluehead wrasse photo
I'd like a close-up picture of a Bluehead wrasse to show in my
undergraduate psychology class on gender .... I suspect you have one in
your library.....could you give me a url where I could download one?
thanks
c. >>
Take a look at the fabulous image of the male you're looking for on our site:
Home Page, and, you're welcome.
Bob Fenner
FISH PROBLEM
Hi,
I have had a small lunare wrasse for the last 6 months. The
last three weeks it hides in shells and under rocks and never seems
interested in eating or swimming around the tank. He is breathing
heavier than normal and his body color is changing from light blue to a
lime green color. Is it sick or is it going through it's sex change
where it becomes a "super male" ???
AMY
>>
You may have hit the proverbial head on the nail... I wouldn't be overly
concerned re this Thalassoma lunare... as it will once again become more
outgoing... I doubt if it/she/he is really sick.
Bob Fenner
