Bluespotted Tamarin Wrasse Care Guide
Anampses caeruleopunctatus is a wide-ranging Indo-Pacific wrasse; adults are dark with electric-blue spots and juveniles mimic floating leaves.
Overview
The bluespotted wrasse (Anampses caeruleopunctatus) is a wrasse of the family Labridae with a very wide Indo-Pacific range. Adults are dark with electric-blue spots over the body, and the species reaches about 42 cm. Juveniles mimic floating leaves by orienting and moving accordingly.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Anampses
- Scientific name: Anampses caeruleopunctatus
- Described by Rüppell, 1829
Habitat
The species ranges from the South African coast through the Indian Ocean to Japan and Australia and east to Easter Island in the Pacific, but is absent from Hawaii. Adults prefer the surge zone on coral reefs and rocky coastlines at depths of about 3 to 30 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Maximum size: up to 42 cm
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
- Fine sand bed for burying
Diet
Anampses caeruleopunctatus is carnivorous and feeds on small benthic invertebrates taken from the substrate. As with other Anampses wrasses, a mature system with abundant live microfauna aids acclimation.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, diurnal wrasse of the middle water column that buries in sand to rest. Calm tank mates suit it, and because it favours the surge zone, strong but varied water movement and a sand bed are recommended.
Reef compatibility
Anampses caeruleopunctatus does not harm corals, but it grazes small benthic invertebrates, so it is best regarded as reef-safe only with caution where ornamental micro-invertebrates are kept. Specific gravity 1.024-1.026, carbonate hardness 8-12 dKH.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assesses Anampses caeruleopunctatus as Least Concern. It is of minor importance to local fisheries and appears in the aquarium trade.