Adorned Wrasse Care Guide
Halichoeres cosmetus is an Indian Ocean reef wrasse feeding on benthic invertebrates; it is reef compatible and needs a sandy substrate.
Overview
Halichoeres cosmetus, the adorned wrasse, is a marine wrasse of the family Labridae described by Randall and M. M. Smith in 1982. It is native to the Indian Ocean and is a hardy, reef-compatible species in aquaria.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Halichoeres
- Scientific name: Halichoeres cosmetus
- Described by Randall and M. M. Smith, 1982
Habitat
The species occurs in the Indian Ocean from South Africa north to Yemen, including Socotra, and east to western Thailand. It inhabits shallow coral and rocky reefs, found solitary or in small loose groups. FishBase reports a depth range of about 2 to 31 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 13 cm total length (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
A sandy substrate of around 2-3 inches is advised so the fish can burrow, in keeping with the genus.
Diet
The adorned wrasse is a carnivore that feeds on benthic invertebrates. Aquarium specimens take frozen mysis and brine shrimp and prepared marine foods in several small daily feedings.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that mixes well with tangs, clownfish, cardinalfish and anthias. Aggressive damsels and predatory fish are best avoided.
Reef compatibility
The species is reef compatible and can help control fireworms and parasites, but it may also consume desirable ornamental invertebrates such as shrimp and fan worms if available.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2010).