Common name: Speckled maori wrasse
General information
The Ringtail Wrasse, Oxycheilinus arenatus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. Known for its distinctive pinkish to reddish body and the prominent dark spot at the base of its tail, this species is a favorite among aquarists who appreciate its beauty and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrasseOxycheilinus
- SpeciesSpeckled maori wrasseOxycheilinus arenatus (Valenciennes, 1840)
- SynonymsCheilinus arenatus Valenciennes, 1840Cheilinus arenatus valenciennes , 1840Cheilinus notophthalmus Bleeker, 1853Oxycheilinus notophthalmus (Bleeker, 1853)
Care
Ringtail Wrasses are known for their hardiness and adaptability in a well-established aquarium. They require a tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting invertebrates, which are a natural part of their diet. It's important to have a tightly fitting lid as they are skilled jumpers. A varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, will keep them healthy and their colors vibrant.
Reproduction
In the wild, Oxycheilinus arenatus exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can later transform into males. This is less commonly observed in the aquarium setting, but understanding their reproductive behavior can be fascinating for advanced hobbyists interested in marine biology.
Habitat
The Ringtail Wrasse is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to South Africa and east to the Line Islands. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, usually at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their natural habitat includes a variety of reef structures which provide both food and shelter.