This wrasse has a number of common names: rockmover, dragon, and reindeer.

Rockmover comes from the behavior in which they move coral fragments and rubble to find prey.

These fish are highly territorial.

Large adults, usually in pairs, move over “their” large section of a reef.

One fish turns or shifts large pieces of debris or rubble grabbing or pulling it with its mouth or pushing it with its snout.

When the working member of the pair has revealed the prey, the other fish quickly grabs and eats it. Juveniles do not usually work in pairs, doing all the work themselves.

Facing danger, these wrasses quickly dive into the sand for protection.

Juveniles resemble algae and mimic the movements of detached, drifting seaweed by swaying back and forth in the currents.

Food and Diet:

The diet should include meaty items such as chopped seafoods, brine or mysis shrimp, blackworms, grass shrimp, and flake food.

Larger specimens may be given small feeder fish.

Reef Compatability: Not recommended

Level of Care: Moderate

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1 to 2"; Medium: 2.5" to 3"; Large: 4" to 6"