Common name: Hartzfeld's wrasse

General information

Hartzfeld's Wrasse (Halichoeres hartzfeldii) is a colorful and active fish that adds both beauty and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking coloration, which can vary significantly between individuals. Juveniles typically exhibit a combination of white, black, and yellow markings, while adults develop more intense green, blue, and pink hues along with their distinctive yellow spots.

As a member of the wrasse family, Halichoeres hartzfeldii is appreciated for its pest control abilities, as it actively hunts for small invertebrates, including bristle worms and flatworms, which can be detrimental to reef health.

Care

Hartzfeld's Wrasse requires an aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. A sandy substrate is also important, as these wrasses will often bury themselves in the sand when they feel threatened or to sleep at night. They are generally peaceful but can become territorial with other wrasses. It's best to introduce them to the tank last to minimize aggression.

A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their vibrant coloration and health. They are known to be hardy and adaptable to aquarium life if provided with the right conditions.

Reproduction

In the wild, Hartzfeld's Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male later in life. This change is often triggered by social cues or the absence of a dominant male. In the aquarium, breeding Hartzfeld's Wrasse is challenging, and there are few reports of successful captive breeding.

Habitat

Hartzfeld's Wrasse is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from Indonesia to the Solomon Islands, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, usually at depths of 3 to 30 meters (10 to 100 feet).