Common name: Southern tubelip

General information

The Australian Tamarin Wrasse, Labropsis australis, is a lesser-known but visually striking species in the marine aquarium trade. This fish is appreciated for its vibrant coloration and dynamic behavior. Adult males exhibit a rich yellow-orange body with a distinctive blue stripe running from the eye to the tail, while females and juveniles are more subdued in color.

Care

Labropsis australis requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are active swimmers and need ample space to roam. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, along with high-quality marine pellets, will help maintain their color and health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Tamarin Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In captivity, breeding is rare, but providing a group with multiple females and a single male may encourage natural social structures and potential breeding behavior.

Habitat

This species is found in the Western Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to the reefs of New Caledonia. They prefer steep outer reef slopes and are typically found at depths ranging from the shallows down to about 30 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural environment with strong water movement and excellent water quality is crucial for their well-being.