Halichoeres melanotis Care Guide
Halichoeres melanotis is an eastern Pacific reef wrasse from Mexico to Costa Rica that feeds on small reef organisms and buries in sand.
Overview
Halichoeres melanotis is a marine wrasse of the family Labridae from the eastern central Pacific. Like its congeners it is a reef-associated benthic feeder that buries in sand when threatened or at night.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Halichoeres
- Scientific name: Halichoeres melanotis
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the eastern central Pacific, from Mexico to Costa Rica, including Cocos Island. It is found on reefs at a depth range of about 8 to 37 m in tropical waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 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 deep enough for burrowing suits this species, in line with other Halichoeres.
Diet
Halichoeres melanotis is a carnivore with a trophic level around 3.5, taking small reef invertebrates. Aquarium specimens accept meaty frozen and prepared marine foods in several small feedings per day.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, bottom-oriented wrasse compatible with calm reef tankmates such as tangs, clownfish, cardinalfish and anthias. Aggressive damsels and predators should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
As with the genus, it does not damage corals but may eat small ornamental invertebrates and worms.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2007).