Common name: Redbreast wrasse

General information

The Red Sea Wrasse, scientifically known as Cheilinus fasciatus, 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 diversity and beauty of its members. The Red Sea Wrasse exhibits a range of colors from reddish to greenish hues with distinctive vertical stripes that can vary in intensity.

In the wild, these wrasses are often solitary or found in small groups. They are known for their curious nature and can become quite personable in a captive environment. This species is not commonly found in the aquarium trade, primarily due to its large adult size and specific care requirements.

Care

Caring for a Red Sea Wrasse requires a spacious aquarium with a minimum size of 500 liters to accommodate their adult size and active swimming behavior. They thrive in environments with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh is essential for their health. It's important to note that they can be aggressive towards smaller fish and invertebrates, so tank mates should be chosen with care.

Reproduction

In the wild, Cheilinus fasciatus is known to form harems with one dominant male and several females. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females have the ability to change into males if the dominant male is no longer present. Breeding in captivity is rare and poses significant challenges due to their size and social structure.

Habitat

The Red Sea Wrasse is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. They prefer reef environments, often found at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. Their natural habitat includes coral outcrops and rubble areas where they can hunt for food and seek shelter.