Pygmy Possum Wrasse Care Guide
Wetmorella nigropinnata is a small, secretive Indo-Pacific reef wrasse that hides in caves and crevices, reaching about 8 cm.
Overview
Wetmorella nigropinnata, the sharpnose or pygmy possum wrasse, is a small reef-associated fish of the family Labridae from the Indo-Pacific. It is a secretive species reaching about 8 cm in total length, typically grayish-brown to reddish-brown with light yellow markings behind the eye and on the caudal peduncle.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Wetmorella
- Scientific name: Wetmorella nigropinnata
Habitat
The species ranges across the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Marquesan and Pitcairn Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to the southern Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. It inhabits caves and crevices of lagoon and seaward reefs at depths of 0-36 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 species feeds on benthic invertebrates. In the aquarium this carnivorous wrasse is offered small meaty foods, and it is reef-safe, not harming corals.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful but reclusive wrasse that spends much of its time among caves and crevices. It is best kept in a mature reef aquarium with plentiful live rock and away from large, aggressive species that would outcompete it for food.
Breeding
The species is oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding. Juveniles display two broad pale body bars. Captive breeding is rarely reported.
Conservation status
According to FishBase, Wetmorella nigropinnata is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List (assessed 2009).