Common name: Three-ribbon wrasse
General information
The Banded Rainbowfish, scientifically known as Stethojulis strigiventer, is a vibrant and active species popular among marine aquarium enthusiasts. This species is part of the wrasse family, which is known for its bright colors and dynamic behavior. The Strigate Wrasse is particularly noted for its striking coloration, which includes a series of vertical bands that can range from blue to green, with a distinctive orange stripe running along the length of its body.
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
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs a varied diet and swimming space
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp, and algae
- Social
- Pair Can be kept in pairs or small groups
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrasseStethojulis
- SpeciesThree-ribbon wrasseStethojulis strigiventer (Bennett, 1833)
- SynonymsJulis renardi Bleeker, 1851Julis strigiventer Bennett, 1833Stethojulis psacas Jordan & Snyder, 1902Stethojulis renardi (Bleeker, 1851)Stethojulis strigiventor (Bennett, 1833)Stethojulis stringiventer (Bennett, 1833)
Care
Stethojulis strigiventer is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity, provided that its environment is well-maintained. They require a tank with plenty of swimming space and rockwork or coral to provide hiding places. A sandy substrate is also beneficial as these wrasses may bury themselves in the sand when stressed or sleeping. They are not overly aggressive but can be territorial, so it's important to introduce them to a community tank with care. 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, Stethojulis strigiventer exhibits protogynous hermaphroditism, where individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding these wrasses can be challenging due to their complex social structures and reproductive behaviors. However, with a well-established and spacious tank, it is possible to observe their fascinating courtship displays.
Habitat
The Banded Rainbowfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically seen in shallow, clear coastal reefs and lagoons, often swimming in small groups or pairs. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with live rock structures and moderate to strong water flow will contribute to their well-being.