Adorned Wrasse

The Adorned Wrasse (Halichoeres cosmetus) is a vibrant and eye-catching fish that adds color and personality to any reef tank. Known for its striking pattern and active behavior, it is often sought after by marine aquarium enthusiasts. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Adorned Wrasse is typically found in coral reefs, where it enjoys a varied diet and exhibits interesting behaviors.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Adorned Wrasse, Cosmetus Wrasse, Polka-Dot Wrasse
• Scientific Name: Halichoeres cosmetus
• Family: Labridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around Indonesia and the Philippines.
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 5 inches (10 cm).
• Lifespan: Can live for 5 to 6 years in captivity with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires stable water conditions and some experience with saltwater fish.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The body is greenish-yellow with distinctive blue spots scattered across the body. The tail fin is often bright yellow, and the dorsal fin may have a reddish or orange hue.
• Body Shape & Structure: Elongated body with a slightly pointed snout; the overall shape is sleek and streamlined, ideal for darting through crevices.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 30-gallon (114-liter) tank is recommended for a single individual.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 75°F and 80°F (24°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.022 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide live rock for hiding, along with open areas for swimming. The Adorned Wrasse enjoys a well-structured tank with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: A diet of live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small crustaceans. It can also accept high-quality marine flakes or pellets.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2 to 3 times daily in small portions.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Active and curious, often swimming around the tank and looking for food or new areas to explore.
• Social Behavior: Generally peaceful but can become territorial, particularly towards other wrasses or similar-looking fish.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Best housed with other peaceful species; avoid aggressive or territorial fish.
• Activity Level: Very active, frequently darting around the tank and exploring different areas.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Ideal for intermediate hobbyists; requires stable water conditions and an established aquarium.
• Special Requirements: Regular water changes, a varied diet, and hiding places are important to maintain its health and well-being.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is not well-documented, but they are egg-layers and can breed in larger, well-maintained tanks.
• Additional Notes: While the Adorned Wrasse is reef-safe with caution, it may sometimes pick at small invertebrates or eggs. It thrives in a tank with plenty of hiding spots and a variety of food sources.