Common name: yellowcheek wrasse

General information

The Yellowhead Wrasse, Halichoeres cyanocephalus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. It is known for its striking coloration, with males displaying a bright yellow head that transitions to a blue-green body, while females and juveniles are more subdued with a greenish-brown appearance. This species is part of the Labridae family, which is known for its members' cleaning behaviors, often picking off parasites from other fish.

Care

Yellowhead Wrasses are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in captivity if provided with a well-structured environment that mimics their natural habitat. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. This species is known for its tendency to jump, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escape. They are not picky eaters and will accept a variety of foods including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine flake and pellet foods.

Reproduction

In the wild, Yellowhead Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male if the dominant male is no longer present. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a stable environment and a group consisting of one male and several females, spawning may occur.

Habitat

Halichoeres cyanocephalus is found in the tropical waters of the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands. They typically inhabit shallow reefs and rocky areas where they can be seen darting among the crevices in search of food.