Common name: Sharpnose wrasse
General information
The Possum Wrasse, scientifically known as Wetmorella nigropinnata, is a small and peaceful fish that is well-suited for nano and smaller reef aquariums. Its striking coloration, with a yellow band across its back and dark fins, makes it a visually appealing addition to any tank. This species is known for its reclusive nature and tendency to hide among rockwork and coral.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Shy, needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Carnivore Mysis, brine shrimp, fine meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusPossum WrasseWetmorella
- SpeciesSharpnose wrasseWetmorella nigropinnata (Seale, 1901)
- SynonymsCheilinus nigropinnatus Seale, 1901Wetmorella ocellata Schultz & Marshall, 1954Wetmorella philippina Fowler & Bean, 1928Wetmorella philippina bifasciata Schultz & Marshall, 1954Wetmorella triocellata Schultz & Marshall, 1954
Care
Possum Wrasses are relatively easy to care for but do require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are not aggressive and can be kept with a variety of other peaceful fish and invertebrates. A varied diet of small, meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health.
Reproduction
Reproduction in the home aquarium is rare for Possum Wrasses. In the wild, they are known to be egg-layers, with distinct pairing during the breeding season. However, little is known about their specific reproductive behaviors.
Habitat
Wetmorella nigropinnata is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and rocky substrates. They prefer shallow waters and are often observed at depths ranging from 3 to 40 meters.