Yellow Wrasse — Halichoeres chrysus

Useful pest-controller. Peaceful and active.

Quick facts

• Size: 10–12 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful, curious

• Reef-safe: Yes, with caution around tiny shrimp and snails

• Minimum tank: 200–250 l (55–65 gal)

• Cover: Tight, jump-proof lid required

• Note: Sleeps and hides in sand

Aquarium requirements

• Tank size: ≥ 200–250 l with long swim space.

• Lid: Gap-free canopy or mesh.

• Substrate: Fine, rounded sand 5–7 cm for burrowing. Avoid sharp gravel.

• Rockwork: Ample live rock, caves, and shelters.

• Water: pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.025–1.026, temp 24–26 °C (75–79 °F).

• Flow: Moderate to strong with some calmer areas.

Diet

• Frequency: 2–3 small feedings per day.

• Foods: Vitamin-enriched mysis, finely chopped marine meaty foods, quality marine pellets and flakes; occasional live or frozen micro-foods.

Social considerations

• Solo or harem: Usually kept singly; in large tanks a small female group can work.

• Conspecifics: May squabble with other Halichoeres in tight quarters.

• Tankmates: Suits peaceful reef fish. May prey on very small shrimp and snails.

Utility behavior

• Hunts flatworms, small bristleworms, and other nuisance invertebrates.

Husbandry tips

• Acclimate with lights dimmed.

• Provide sand from day one to reduce stress.

• Secure all lid gaps around plumbing and cables.