Halichoeres marginatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Dusky Wrasse, scientifically known as Halichoeres marginatus, belongs to the Labridae family and is a popular choice in aquariums due to its striking appearance and effective handling of flatworms and pyramid snails. These fish are generally peaceful compared to other species used for similar purposes but can outgrow smaller tanks. They vary in dietary habits, with some focusing on small invertebrates while others can crush various crustaceans, and even prey on larger organisms by smashing them against rocks. When threatened or needing rest, Dusky Wrasses will burrow into the sand for protection.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums, Dusky Wrasses require care due to their feeding habits, potential aggression towards certain species, and their tendency to burrow. They are sensitive during transportation and acclimatization, requiring a deep sandy substrate of at least 2 inches for burrowing and feeling secure. A tank size of at least 500 liters is recommended, and they thrive best as a pair or with one male and multiple females.

Care and Hardiness

With average hardiness, Dusky Wrasses need attention to details such as monitoring injuries, especially around the mouth area, during transportation. They have a unique biological clock that may need time to readjust after being transported to a new environment. Being hermaphroditic, they can change gender from female to male when necessary.

Reef Suitability

Reef safe with caution, Dusky Wrasses can be housed in reef aquariums, but their tendency to eat tubeworms poses a threat to certain reef inhabitants. Their peaceful temperament might shift if aggression arises towards similar species in the tank.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Dusky Wrasses should include a deep sandy substrate for burrowing, ample hiding spots, and a variety of small crustaceans and invertebrates as part of their recommended diet. They require stable water conditions with a pH ranging from 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a KH level of 8-12.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful nature, Dusky Wrasses may display aggression towards similar species, so monitoring tank dynamics is crucial. They exhibit unique behaviors such as hiding in the sand when threatened or resting and are active feeders that will opportunistically prey on smaller organisms.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding on flatworms, pyramid snails, and a variety of small crustaceans, Dusky Wrasses have a diverse diet that includes zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. They are known to crush larger prey against rocks and can consume prey larger than themselves.

Dimorphism

Dusky Wrasses exhibit dimorphism in color variations, making identification challenging at times. Captive reproduction may occur, given the species' hermaphroditic nature and ability to change gender from female to male.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Dusky Wrasses are found from the Red Sea south to Mozambique and east to islands like Hawaii and Tuamoto. Their distribution extends north to southern Japan and south to the Great Barrier Reef and Austral Islands.