Common name: Yellowback tubelip

General information

The Yellow-Backed Wrasse, Labropsis xanthonota, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is part of the Labridae family, which is known for its members' bright colors and interesting behaviors. The Yellow-Backed Wrasse is distinguished by its striking yellow dorsal area and the contrasting blue to purple hues on the rest of its body.

Care

Yellow-Backed Wrasses are moderately easy to care for but do require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are known to jump, so a tightly fitting lid or screen is necessary to prevent escape. These wrasses are active swimmers and need ample space to roam. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, supplemented with high-quality marine flake and pellet food, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Labropsis xanthonota exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but environmental stability and a well-matched pair can encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Yellow-Backed Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs. They prefer environments with clear water and a healthy coral presence, where they can be seen swimming actively during the day. At night, they retreat into crevices or bury themselves in the sand for protection.