Red Breasted Maori Wrasse

A great Red Breasted Maori Wrasse!
Origin: Central Pacific

Size info:
Size XL: approx. 5.5 -7"

There once was a Maori Wrasse so fine,
Its red breast would always outshine.
With vibrant hues so cool,
And a playful swimming rule,
In the ocean, it's truly divine.

Keeping Red Breasted Maori Wrasse in an Aquarium

The Red Breasted Maori Wrasse, scientifically known as Cheilinus fasciatus, is a stunning and highly sought-after fish species for aquarium enthusiasts. Here are some key points to consider when keeping this fish in an aquarium:

Tank Size and Setup

Red Breasted Maori Wrasse can grow quite large, reaching up to 20 inches (50 cm) in length. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with a spacious tank to swim comfortably. A tank with a minimum capacity of 150 gallons (570 liters) is recommended. The aquarium should be well-decorated with plenty of live rock formations, caves, and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.

Water Conditions

This wrasse species thrives in a well-maintained marine environment. The ideal water temperature should be kept between 72-78°F (22-26°C), with a pH range of 8.1-8.4. A high-quality protein skimmer is recommended to maintain excellent water quality, as these fish produce a significant amount of waste.

Feeding

The Red Breasted Maori Wrasse is primarily carnivorous and requires a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on small crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates. In captivity, it is essential to offer a mix of high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and occasional live foods such as shrimp, clams, or mussels. Providing a diverse diet will help ensure their overall health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to smaller tank mates, as they may view them as potential prey. It is best to house them with larger, more robust fish. Red Breasted Maori Wrasse are known for their curious and interactive behavior, often recognizing their owners and displaying a unique personality.

Coolest Facts about the Red Breasted Maori Wrasse

• One of the most remarkable features of this fish is its vibrant coloration. The Red Breasted Maori Wrasse showcases a beautiful blend of red, orange, yellow, and blue hues, making it a true showstopper in any aquarium.
• They have the ability to change their sex during their lifetime. Red Breasted Maori Wrasse are initially born as females and can transform into males as they mature. This unique trait is known as protogynous hermaphroditism.
• Red Breasted Maori Wrasse are highly intelligent and can recognize their owners. They often exhibit playful behavior and may even learn to eat from their owner's hand.
• They possess powerful jaws and teeth, which they use to crush the shells of their prey. This adaptation allows them to feed on hard-shelled invertebrates that many other fish cannot consume.
• In the wild, Red Breasted Maori Wrasse are known to form a symbiotic relationship with cleaner fish. They visit cleaning stations where smaller fish remove parasites and dead skin from their bodies.

Overall, keeping a Red Breasted Maori Wrasse in an aquarium can be a rewarding experience for dedicated hobbyists. Their stunning appearance, unique behaviors, and ability to interact with their owners make them a fascinating addition to any marine setup.