Common name: Redtail wrasse

General information

The Redhead Wrasse, scientifically known as Anampses chrysocephalus, is a striking species admired for its vibrant coloration and dynamic behavior. This species is part of the Labridae family, which is known for the cleaning behavior exhibited by many of its members. The Redhead Wrasse is particularly noted for its color transition from juvenile to adult, where juveniles display a combination of white and brown shades, and adults develop a prominent red head with a blue-green body and yellow spots.

Care

Redhead Wrasses are moderately challenging to keep due to their specific dietary and environmental requirements. They thrive in well-established aquariums with a sandy substrate, which they use for burrowing and sleeping. Providing a variety of live rock formations will offer additional hiding places and mimic their natural habitat. A diet rich in meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their well-being.

Reproduction

In the wild, Anampses chrysocephalus exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and have the potential to change to males as they mature. This change is often triggered by social factors such as the absence of a dominant male. In the aquarium, breeding these wrasses can be challenging, and successful captive breeding is rare.

Habitat

Redhead Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the central Pacific Ocean. They prefer reef environments, particularly areas with abundant coral growth and sandy substrates where they can burrow. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters.