Common name: Greenhead wrasse

General information

The Yellow-Head Wrasse, Halichoeres chlorocephalus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. Known for its striking yellow head and pastel green body, this wrasse is a favorite among hobbyists. As a member of the family Labridae, it exhibits the typical wrasse behavior of being both curious and hardy.

Care

Yellow-Head Wrasses are relatively easy to care for but do require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. They are known to jump, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. These wrasses are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Halichoeres chlorocephalus is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is not commonly observed, but providing a group with multiple females and a single male may encourage natural social behavior.

Habitat

Native to the Western Pacific, Yellow-Head Wrasses are found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs. They prefer environments with plenty of crevices and overhangs where they can search for small invertebrates to eat and retreat when threatened.