Harlequin Tuskfish Care Guide
Choerodon fasciatus is a Western Pacific wrasse with orange-and-blue bars and prominent blue teeth, reaching about 30 cm.
Overview
Choerodon fasciatus, the harlequin tuskfish, is a wrasse of the family Labridae described by Günther in 1867. It has about eight pairs of alternating orange, blue, and white vertical bands along the flanks and prominent sharp blue teeth that give it its common name. Australian specimens tend to display brighter coloration.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Choerodon
- Scientific name: Choerodon fasciatus
Habitat
The species has a disjunct Western Pacific range, occurring from the Ryukyus to Taiwan and from New Caledonia to Queensland, Australia, including Papua New Guinea and Lord Howe Island. It is reef-associated, inhabiting seaward reefs at depths of about 5 to 35 metres.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L (132 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
FishBase reports a maximum length of about 30 cm total length and a preferred temperature range of roughly 24.5-28.7 °C.
Diet
The harlequin tuskfish is carnivorous. It feeds on benthic invertebrates including molluscs, crustaceans, worms, and echinoderms. In the aquarium it accepts meaty marine foods offered around twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, diurnal, mid-water wrasse. Juveniles are shy and easily bullied, while adults are aggressive and generally cannot be housed with their own species. It is not reef-safe, preying on crabs, hermit crabs, snails, and shrimp. Robust tankmates such as tangs, triggerfish, and sturdy wrasses are more suitable.
Breeding
FishBase describes the species as oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding and monogamous pairs. Captive breeding is considered expert-level.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2008).