Bird Wrasse

Gomphosus varius

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Suggested Tank

125+ gallons

Max Size

12 inches

Difficulty

Medium

Temperament

Semi-Aggressive

Description

The Bird Wrasse is instantly recognizable by its long, tubular beak-like snout and torpedo-shaped body; males are brilliant teal to blue-green while females are brown-black above with a pale belly and yellowish tail base. It is a restless, fast-swimming carnivore that hunts crustaceans, small mollusks, brittle stars, and small fish, and it can bully smaller or more timid tankmates as it matures. Give it a long, established tank of 125 gallons or more with plenty of open swimming room, abundant live rock for hunting and hiding, a fine sand bed for sleeping, and a tightly sealed lid, since it is a notorious jumper.

Reef Safe

With caution

Environment

Bird Wrasses prefer a well-lit aquarium with plenty of open space for swimming. They also require plenty of hiding spots, which can be provided with rocks and corals. The aquarium should have a tight-fitting lid, as Bird Wrasses are known jumpers.

Behavior

Bird Wrasses are active swimmers that enjoy open spaces. They are known for their unique swimming style, which involves using their pectoral fins to move in a rowing motion. These fish are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other wrasses and similar species.

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Bird Wrasse

Gomphosus varius

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