White-Banded Possum Wrasse Care Guide
Wetmorella albofasciata is a small, secretive Indo-Pacific reef wrasse that lives in caves and crevices, reaching about 6 cm.
Overview
Wetmorella albofasciata, the whitebanded sharpnose or possum wrasse, is a small reef-associated fish of the family Labridae from the Indo-Pacific. It is a secretive species reaching about 6 cm in total length, with grayish-brown to reddish-brown coloration marked by pale bands on the head.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Wetmorella
- Scientific name: Wetmorella albofasciata
Habitat
The species is distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to the Hawaiian and Society Islands, south to the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits caves and crevices of lagoon and seaward reefs and drop-offs, typically at depths of at least 30 m, within a recorded range of 8-42 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
The genus Wetmorella feeds on small benthic invertebrates; in the aquarium this carnivorous wrasse is offered small meaty foods. It is reef-safe and does not harm corals.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, reclusive wrasse that spends much time among caves and crevices. It is best housed in a mature reef aquarium with ample live rock and avoided with large, aggressive species that would outcompete it for food or intimidate it.
Breeding
Reproduction involves distinct pairing during breeding. The species is benthic to benthopelagic; captive breeding is not commonly reported.
Conservation status
According to FishBase, Wetmorella albofasciata is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List (assessed 2009).