Common name: Jordan's tuskfish
General information
Jordan's Tuskfish, scientifically known as Choerodon jordani, is a vibrant and captivating species popular among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its striking coloration, typically a blend of blues, greens, and yellows, which can add a splash of color to any marine aquarium. They belong to the family Labridae, which includes wrasses, known for their bright colors and interesting behaviors.
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 easy Needs varied diet & hiding spots.
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys both meaty foods & algae.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals and clams.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to conspecifics.
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusTuskfishChoerodon
- SpeciesJordan's tuskfishChoerodon jordani (Snyder, 1908)
- SynonymsChoerops jordani Snyder, 1908
Care
Caring for Jordan's Tuskfish requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to mimic their natural habitat. They are relatively hardy but should be kept in a well-maintained tank with stable water conditions. These fish are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh. It's important to feed them a varied diet to maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Jordan's Tuskfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male later in life. This change usually occurs when there is an absence of a dominant male in the group. In the aquarium, breeding Jordan's Tuskfish can be challenging due to their complex social and reproductive behaviors.
Habitat
Jordan's Tuskfish are native to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. They are typically found in coral-rich areas and rocky outcrops where they can forage for food. In the wild, they are often observed at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 20 meters deep.