Reeflings

Common name: Red moki

Scientific name: Cheilodactylus spectabilis Hutton, 1872
Two banded morwongs Cheilodactylus spectabilis feeding on hard algae from flat bottom of mixed sand and rocks.Red moki Cheilodactylus spectabilis viewed from above swimming over mixed bottom of sand and rocks.
Banded morwong Cheilodactylus spectabilis among brown seaweeds and bright sponges. Location: Leigh New ZealandRed moki Cheilodactylus spectabilis swimming above pasture of short brown sea weeds on flat bottom.

General information

The Maori Wrasse, Cheilodactylus spectabilis, is a striking species known for its vibrant coloration and patterns. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other wrasses, but it is highly valued by enthusiasts for its unique appearance and behavior. The Maori Wrasse can be recognized by its large size, robust body, and the intricate maze-like patterns that adorn its scales.

Details

Recommended minimum volume
300 liter (79 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
35 cm (1′2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers rocky structures
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet, accepts most foods
Social
Solo Can be territorial
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals
Aggression
Semi aggresive Territorial, especially with conspecifics
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Morwong
    Cheilodactylidae
  6. Genus
    Morwong
    Cheilodactylus
  7. Species
    Red moki
    Cheilodactylus spectabilis Hutton, 1872
  8. Synonyms
    Cheilodactylus rubrofasciatus Castelnau, 1878
    Chilodactylus allporti Günther, 1872
    Chilodactylus asper Klunzinger, 1872
    Chironemus spectabilis (Hutton, 1872)
    Goniistius spectabilis (Hutton, 1872)

Care

Cheilodactylus spectabilis requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to thrive. They are active swimmers and need room to roam. A sandy substrate is also important as they may burrow when stressed or during the night. This species is known to be somewhat territorial, so it should be introduced to the aquarium before more docile species. They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.

Reproduction

In the wild, Maori Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male later in life. This change is often triggered by social cues or the absence of a dominant male. In the aquarium, breeding Maori Wrasses is quite challenging and rarely achieved. However, understanding their social structure and providing an environment that mimics their natural habitat can increase the chances of successful breeding.

Habitat

The Maori Wrasse is found in the subtropical waters of the South Pacific, including New Zealand and the East Coast of Australia. They prefer rocky reefs and kelp forests where they can find shelter and an abundance of food. In the wild, they are usually found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 50 meters.