Common name: yellowdotted maori wrasse

General information

The Bird Wrasse, Cheilinus chlorourus, is a distinctive species known for its elongated snout and vibrant coloration. Males typically exhibit a bright green hue, while females and juveniles are usually brown with white markings. This species is part of the Labridae family and is often sought after by aquarists for its active swimming behavior and pest control abilities.

Care

Bird Wrasses are active swimmers and require a spacious tank with plenty of room to roam. They are not reef-safe as they tend to prey on small invertebrates and may disturb the substrate. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood, will keep them healthy and vibrant.

Reproduction

In the wild, Bird Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. Breeding in captivity is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with plenty of hiding spaces can encourage natural behaviors.

Habitat

Bird Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their elongated snout is an adaptation for hunting small prey in crevices and under rocks.