Common name: Two-spot wrasse
General information
The Two-spot Wrasse, scientifically known as Oxycheilinus bimaculatus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. Its body is elongated with a mix of pink, red, and white hues, and as the name suggests, it is distinguished by two prominent black spots - one on the cheek and another near the base of the tail.
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
- 20 cm (8″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots and open space
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys meaty foods, mysis shrimp
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at coral polyps
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May show aggression to tank mates
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrasseOxycheilinus
- SpeciesTwo-spot wrasseOxycheilinus bimaculatus (Valenciennes, 1840)
- SynonymsCheilinus bifasciatus Bleeker, 1871Cheilinus bimaculatus Valenciennes, 1840Cheilinus bimaculatus valenciennes , 1840Cheilinus ceramensis Bleeker, 1852Cheilinus melanopleura Bleeker, 1866
Care
Two-spot Wrasses are known for their hardiness and adaptability to aquarium life. They require a tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. These wrasses are active swimmers and will appreciate ample space to roam. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Oxycheilinus bimaculatus exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a well-established pair, spawning may occur. Observing their complex mating rituals can be a fascinating experience for aquarists.
Habitat
The Two-spot 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 lagoons and outer reefs, often seen at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their natural environment is characterized by clear waters with abundant coral and rocky substrates where they can hunt for small invertebrates.