Common name: Cortez rainbow wrasse
General information
The Mexican Hogfish, Thalassoma lucasanum, is a vibrant and active species that adds both color and dynamic behavior to a saltwater aquarium. Known for its striking appearance, the Mexican Hogfish has a purple head, a yellow body, and a magenta tail, with males often displaying more intense coloration and larger size than females. They are found in the Eastern Pacific region and are a popular choice among aquarists who appreciate their bold personalities.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs ample swimming space
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Can be kept in pairs
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusLunar WrasseThalassoma
- SpeciesCortez rainbow wrasseThalassoma lucasanum (Gill, 1862)
- SynonymsJulis lucasanus Gill, 1862Thalassoma caeruleomarginata Fowler, 1944Thalassoma steindachneri Jordan, 1890
Care
Mexican Hogfish are relatively hardy but require a spacious tank to accommodate their size and active swimming habits. They can grow up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in length, so a larger tank is necessary. These fish are not reef-safe as they have a tendency to nip at small invertebrates and may eat ornamental shrimp and crabs. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh is essential for their health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Mexican Hogfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but understanding their reproductive behavior can help in managing social dynamics within the tank.
Habitat
Native to the rocky reefs and slopes of the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands, Mexican Hogfish are typically found at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters. They prefer environments with plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas.