Common name: Whitebanded sharpnose wrasse
General information
The Whitebanded Possum Wrasse, Wetmorella albofasciata, is a small and peaceful fish that is well-suited for nano and smaller reef aquariums. Its striking coloration, with white bands across a dark body, makes it a visually appealing addition to the tank. This species is known for its shy nature and tendency to hide among rockwork and corals.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 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
- 6 cm (2½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Shy, needs hiding places
- Diet
- Carnivore Mysis, brine shrimp, fine meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusPossum WrasseWetmorella
- SpeciesWhitebanded sharpnose wrasseWetmorella albofasciata Schultz & Marshall, 1954
Care
Due to their small size and timid demeanor, Whitebanded Possum Wrasses require a well-structured aquarium with plenty of hiding places. They are not aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful tank mates. These wrasses are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of small, meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Consistent feeding schedules and a varied diet will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare for Wetmorella albofasciata. In the wild, they are oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding. Little is known about their breeding habits, but like many marine fish, they likely release eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.
Habitat
Whitebanded Possum Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs. They prefer environments with plenty of live rock and coral where they can forage for food and seek refuge from predators. In the wild, they are usually observed at depths ranging from 3 to 40 meters.