Common name: Geoffroy's wrasse

General information

Geoffroy's Wrasse, scientifically known as Macropharyngodon geoffroy, is a captivating and colorful species popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is part of the Labridae family, which is known for its vibrant colors and dynamic behavior. Geoffroy's Wrasse is particularly noted for its striking coloration, which includes a greenish to yellowish body with black spots and often a blue outline around the fins.

Care

Geoffroy's Wrasse requires a well-established reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are known for their ability to hunt small pests, such as pyramidellid snails and flatworms, making them beneficial for natural pest control. A sandy substrate is essential for their well-being, as they bury themselves in the sand to sleep or when they feel threatened. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Geoffroy's Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male later in life. This change usually occurs when there is an absence of a dominant male in the group. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a stable environment and a group consisting of one male and several females, it is possible to observe their fascinating courtship displays.

Habitat

Geoffroy's Wrasse is native to the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically found in lagoon and seaward reefs, often associated with coral-rich areas and rubble substrates. They can be found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, where they swim actively during the day in search of food.