Common name: Creole wrasse

General information

The Creole Wrasse, Clepticus parrae, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color and dynamism to any saltwater aquarium. Known for its striking blue to purple body and yellow tail, this species is a favorite among hobbyists who appreciate its beauty and relatively peaceful demeanor. Native to the Western Atlantic, the Creole Wrasse is often found swimming in mid-water above reefs where it feeds on zooplankton.

Care

Creole Wrasses are best suited for larger aquariums due to their active swimming habits and size, which can reach up to 12 inches in length. They thrive in well-established tanks with plenty of open swimming space and rockwork for hiding. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other prepared foods, will help maintain their health and coloration. It's important to have a tightly fitting lid as they are known to be jumpers.

Reproduction

In the wild, Creole Wrasses are known to form harems consisting of one dominant male and several females. They are pelagic spawners, releasing their eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with plenty of space may encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

The Creole Wrasse is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to South America, including the Caribbean Sea. They prefer reef environments, often in clear, current-swept areas where they can easily access their planktonic food sources.