Common name: Wrasse
General information
The Bluebird Wrasse, Gomphosus caeruleus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamic movement to a saltwater aquarium. Known for its distinctive elongated snout and striking coloration, the Bluebird Wrasse transitions from a juvenile phase with a mix of green and white to a brilliant blue in adulthood, with males typically exhibiting a darker blue throat area.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 400 liter (110 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 32 cm (1′1″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs plenty of swimming space.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. veggies & meaty foods.
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May chase smaller fish.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusBird WrasseGomphosus
- SpeciesWrasseGomphosus caeruleus Lacepède, 1801
- SynonymsAcarauna longirostris Sevastianoff, 1802Gomphosus caeruleus klunzingeri Klausewitz, 1962Gomphosus coeruleus Lacepède, 1801Gomphosus fuscus Bennett, 1828Gomphosus melanotus Bleeker, 1855Gomphosus ornatus Anonymous Bennett, 1830Gomphosus viridis Bennett, 1830
Care
Bluebird Wrasses are known for their hardiness and adaptability, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space and rockwork to provide hiding places. A tightly fitting lid is essential, as these wrasses are known jumpers. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and quality marine flake and pellet foods.
Reproduction
In the wild, Bluebird 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 conditions are optimal and a group is kept, the dominant individual may transition to male.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Bluebird Wrasses are commonly found in coral-rich areas and lagoons, often at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. They are active swimmers and require ample space to roam in the home aquarium.