Common name: Birdbeak burrfish

General information

The Birdsnest Wrasse, also known as the Roundface Wrasse or Orbiculate Wrasse, is a unique and colorful addition to the marine aquarium. Cyclichthys orbicularis is known for its distinctive round face and vibrant coloration, which can range from a deep green to a brownish hue with intricate patterns across its body. This species is relatively peaceful and can be a good community fish if housed with the right tank mates.

Care

Caring for the Birdsnest Wrasse requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are active swimmers and need ample space to roam. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration. It's important to have a tightly fitting lid as wrasses are known to be skilled jumpers.

Reproduction

In the wild, Cyclichthys orbicularis exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but environmental stability and proper diet can encourage reproductive behaviors.

Habitat

The Birdsnest Wrasse is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer reef environments and are often seen in lagoons and on outer reef slopes, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.

Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant coral growth and sandy substrates where they can search for small invertebrates to eat and hide from predators.