Common name: African Wrasse
General information
The African Wrasse, Coris atlantica, is a vibrant and active fish species that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. It is known for its striking blue and orange coloration, with males typically exhibiting more vivid hues and a distinctive pattern compared to females. Juveniles have a different appearance, with white bodies and black spots that gradually change as they mature.
This species is endemic to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, particularly around the Cape Verde Islands and along the West African coast. It is a relatively rare find in the aquarium trade, which can make it a unique addition for enthusiasts looking to diversify their tank inhabitants.
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
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrasseCoris
- SpeciesAfrican WrasseCoris atlantica Günther, 1862
- SynonymsCoris guineensis Bleeker, 1863Coris hupferi Fischer, 1885
Care
African Wrasses are known for their hardiness and adaptability, but they require a spacious tank with plenty of swimming room and hiding places. A minimum tank size of 120 gallons is recommended due to their active swimming behavior and size, which can reach up to 6 inches in length. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with a sandy substrate, which they use for sleeping and hiding when threatened.
Their diet should include a variety of meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. They also benefit from the inclusion of marine algae and prepared foods that contain spirulina or other plant-based nutrients.
Reproduction
In the wild, Coris atlantica is known to exhibit protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. This change is often triggered by social factors such as the absence of a dominant male. In the aquarium, breeding of this species is not commonly reported, and their reproductive behaviors are not well documented in home aquaria.
Habitat
The African Wrasse is found in shallow, rocky, and coral reef environments where it can forage for food. They are typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant live rock and coral formations that provide both food and shelter.