Common name: orangetipped rainbowfish

General information

The Hoeven's Wrasse, scientifically known as Halichoeres melanurus, 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 greenish-blue body, an orange stripe along the side, and a distinctive tail pattern that includes a black spot and a series of blue and orange stripes. Juveniles and females are more subdued in color but still exhibit an attractive appearance with a series of horizontal stripes along their bodies.

Care

Hoeven's Wrasse is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging, as well as open swimming space. A well-established tank with a sand bed is also beneficial, as these wrasses may bury themselves in the substrate when they feel threatened or during the night. They are not aggressive towards most tank mates, making them suitable for a community aquarium. However, they may prey on small crustaceans and snails, so they are not ideal for reef tanks with a population of small invertebrates.

Reproduction

In the wild, Hoeven's Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male later in life. This usually occurs when there is an absence of a dominant male in the group. In the aquarium, breeding Hoeven's Wrasse can be challenging, and there are few reports of successful captive breeding.

Habitat

Hoeven's Wrasse is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. They are often seen swimming actively during the day, foraging for food among the corals and sand.