Slippery Dick Wrasse Care Guide
Halichoeres bivittatus is a common western Atlantic reef wrasse and protogynous hermaphrodite that feeds on benthic invertebrates and small fishes.
Overview
Halichoeres bivittatus, the slippery dick, is a marine wrasse of the family Labridae described by Bloch in 1791. Common across the western Atlantic, it displays three colour phases and is a protogynous hermaphrodite.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Halichoeres
- Scientific name: Halichoeres bivittatus
- Described by Bloch, 1791
Habitat
The species ranges in the western Atlantic from North Carolina and Bermuda south to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. It is reef-associated and most common on rocky and reef areas in shallow water, being less common in seagrass. FishBase gives a depth range of about 1 to 15 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH: 8-12
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Maximum size: about 35 cm total length (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
An open sand bed deep enough for burrowing is recommended, as the fish buries at night and when alarmed.
Diet
The slippery dick is a carnivore feeding on benthic invertebrates such as crabs, sea urchins, brittle stars, polychaetes and gastropods, as well as small fishes. In aquaria it accepts meaty frozen and prepared marine foods.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, bottom-oriented fish for larger systems with calm tankmates such as tangs, clownfish, cardinalfish and anthias. Aggressive damsels and predators should be avoided, and small fishes or invertebrates may be eaten.
Reef compatibility
The species does not harm corals but as an active invertebrate hunter it may consume ornamental shrimp, snails and worms.
Breeding
Halichoeres bivittatus is a protogynous hermaphrodite and pelagic spawner that forms leks during breeding; sex change to male occurs at around 30 cm. Peak spawning has been recorded in May and June in North Carolina.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2008).