Common name: Spotted Wrasse
General information
The Spotted Wrasse, scientifically known as Stethojulis maculata, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking coloration, with males displaying a series of blue and orange spots along their bodies, while females and juveniles typically exhibit a more subdued palette of silvery hues with dark spots.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 150 liter (40 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
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet of meaty foods and algae
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrasseStethojulis
- SpeciesSpotted WrasseStethojulis maculata Schmidt, 1931
Care
Spotted Wrasses are relatively hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. A sandy substrate is also beneficial as these wrasses may bury themselves in the sand when they feel threatened or during the night. They are active swimmers and need ample space to roam, so a larger tank is recommended.
Their diet should include a variety of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, as well as high-quality marine flakes and pellets to ensure a balanced nutrition.
Reproduction
In the wild, Spotted Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male later in life. This usually occurs when there is an absence of a dominant male in the group. In the aquarium setting, breeding Spotted Wrasses can be challenging due to their complex social and environmental needs.
Habitat
Stethojulis maculata is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky outcrops. They prefer clear, shallow waters where they can be seen darting among the corals and rocks, often in small groups or harems consisting of one male and several females.