Common name: Tanaka's wrasse
General information
Tanaka's Wrasse, scientifically known as Wetmorella tanakai, is a small and colorful marine fish that is a member of the wrasse family. This species is known for its striking coloration, typically featuring a yellow body with a black longitudinal stripe and white spots. It is a relatively recent addition to the aquarium trade and is prized for its peaceful nature and unique appearance.
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
- 6 cm (2½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Shy species, 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
- SpeciesTanaka's wrasseWetmorella tanakai Randall & Kuiter, 2007
Care
Tanaka's Wrasse is a small species, reaching only about 3 inches in length, making it suitable for smaller reef aquariums. They require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. This species is known to be shy and may be outcompeted for food by more aggressive tank mates, so careful selection of tank mates is crucial. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and finely chopped seafood, will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Wetmorella tanakai in the wild or in captivity. However, like many wrasses, they are likely to be protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they have the ability to change sex from female to male during their lifetime.
Habitat
Tanaka's Wrasse is found in the Western Pacific, particularly around Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes, typically at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters. Their natural habitat is characterized by clear waters with abundant coral cover, which provides both food and shelter.