Halichoeres hortulanus

Datasheet

General Description

The Checkerboard wrasse, scientifically known as Halichoeres hortulanus, is a member of the Labridae family. These fish are popular in aquariums for their attractiveness and effectiveness in controlling flatworms and pyramid snails. Wrasses in the Halichoeres genus are generally peaceful compared to other species and are known to become too large for smaller tanks. They vary in diet, with some feeding on small invertebrates and others capable of crushing crustaceans. They have a unique behavior of burying themselves in the sand when threatened or asleep and have an excellent biological clock, albeit needing time to readjust after transportation.

Aquarium Suitability

Suitable with care, these Checkerboard wrasses demand a large aquarium, not suitable for a home setup due to their size when fully grown. They are sensitive during transportation and acclimatization, requiring deep sandy substrates (at least 2 inches) in the tank for burrowing. They are hermaphroditic, changing gender from female to male when needed, and function best in pairs or with one male and several females.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Considered hardy, these wrasses can be aggressive towards similar species if not given adequate space. They are known to jump out of open aquariums and rearrange rocks and corals while hunting for food. They have specific water condition requirements with a pH of 8.1-8.4, dKH of 8-12, salinity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C.

Reef Suitability

Checkerboard wrasses are not reef-safe due to their invertebrate hunting behavior, which includes targeting crustaceans, sea urchins, and worms. They can disturb the reef structure by moving rocks and corals in search of food.

Aquarium Setup

To accommodate Checkerboard wrasses, a tank size of at least 900 liters is recommended. The aquarium should have a deep sandy substrate for burrowing, ample hiding spots, and sturdy rock formations. Providing a varied diet that includes larger crustaceans, small crustaceans, invertebrates, and zooplankton is essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

These wrasses exhibit aggressive tendencies towards other species and may rearrange the tank environment. They tend to dig themselves into the sand when feeling threatened or sleeping, displaying unique behaviors to adapt to their surroundings.

Feeding and Diet

Checkerboard wrasses have a varied diet that includes larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. They are known to feed on flatworms and pyramid snails, aiding in controlling these populations within the aquarium.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Checkerboard wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to Sodwana Bay in South Africa and east to various islands in the Pacific. They inhabit areas with sandy substrates and rocky structures, where they can forage for food and seek shelter.