Checkerboard Wrasse - Halichoeres hortulanus

The **Marble Wrasse** is a vibrant, larger species of wrasse. Initially, they appear in muted black and white, but as they mature, they transform into strikingly colorful fish with green, orange, and yellow hues, featuring a unique checkerboard design.

These wrasses can grow up to 11 inches and require a minimum tank size of 125 gallons. They are known for their jumping ability, so it's crucial to have a securely covered tank to prevent them from leaping out.

Generally peaceful, **Marble Wrasses** coexist well with other fish, corals, and invertebrates. They help control pests like pyramidellid snails and fireworms but may nip at feather dusters and smaller invertebrates, so caution is advised in reef tanks.

They thrive in tanks with ample live rock for hiding and a sand bed of one to two inches for burrowing. As carnivores, they need a diet rich in meaty foods such as mysis and brine shrimp, high-quality frozen foods, and small pieces of fresh seafood to stay healthy.

Contact us anytime for more information on whether the **Checkerboard Wrasse** is the right choice for your aquarium.

• Maximum Size: 11 inches

  Tank Size: 125 Gallons

  Temperament: Peaceful

  Coloration: Green, Orange, Yellow, Black, White

  Diet: Carnivorous

  Regions Found: Indo-Pacific, Indonesia, Fiji, Vanuatu, Australia

  Reef Compatibility: Yes, with caution

  Experience Level: Intermediate

  Water Conditions: 74-82F, SG 1.020-1.027, pH 7.9-8.5

  Other Names: Marble Wrasse, Hortulanus Wrasse

Size Categories: Tiny: Up to 2", Small: Over 2-2.5", Small/Medium: Over 2.5-3.5", Medium: Over 3.5-4.5", Medium/Large: Over 4.5-5.5", Large: Over 5.5-6.5", Extra Large: Over 6.5-7.5", Extra Extra Large: Over 7.5-8.5", Show Size: Over 8.5-10.5", Jumbo: Over 10.5"