Common name: Sandager's wrasse

General information

The Hawaiian Flame Wrasse, Coris sandeyeri, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color to any saltwater aquarium. This species is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and is known for its striking appearance, with males displaying a brilliant red-orange body, green stripes, and a blue tail. Females and juveniles are more subdued in coloration, typically exhibiting a red-brown body with white to light green stripes.

Care

Flame Wrasses are moderately difficult to care for due to their specific dietary and environmental needs. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health. It's important to note that they are known jumpers, so a tightly fitting lid or screen is necessary to prevent escape.

Reproduction

In the wild, Hawaiian Flame Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but if a dominant male is present, it may display courtship behavior towards females. If conditions are right, they may spawn, with the female releasing eggs into the water column to be fertilized by the male.

Habitat

Coris sandeyeri is found exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky substrates at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 60 meters. They are often seen in pairs or small groups, darting among the reef structures.