Common name: harlequin tuskfish
General information
The Harlequin Tuskfish, Choerodon fasciatus, is a strikingly colorful species popular among aquarists for its vibrant hues and unique appearance. It is characterized by its bold blue, orange, and white stripes, along with prominent tusk-like teeth that are used for hunting prey. This species is a member of the wrasse family, Labridae, and is known for its hardiness and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank 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 difficult Needs varied diet & hiding spots
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers meaty foods, frozen mysis
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusTuskfishChoerodon
- Speciesharlequin tuskfishChoerodon fasciatus (Günther, 1867)
- SynonymsChoerodon balerensis Herre, 1950Lepidaplois mirabilis Snyder, 1908Lepidoplois mirabilis Snyder, 1908Lienardella fasciata (Günther, 1867)Xiphochilus fasciatus Günther, 1867
Care
Harlequin Tuskfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to feel secure. They are carnivorous and need a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and small fish. It's important to note that they may prey on smaller tank mates and invertebrates, so careful selection of compatible species is crucial.
Reproduction
In the wild, Harlequin Tuskfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. However, breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved by hobbyists.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Harlequin Tuskfish are found on coral reefs and rocky outcrops. They prefer clear waters where they can hunt for crustaceans and small fish among the crevices.