More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 1500 litres / 396.26 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 50.0cm / 19.69inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Pastel Ringwrasse, scientifically known as Hologymnosus doliatus, belongs to the Labridae family and is characterized by its large size and high activity levels. These fish display a unique behavior of digging themselves into the sand when threatened or needing rest.
Aquarium Suitability
This species is considered suitable for aquarium life, provided they are given enough space due to their active nature. They are known to be peaceful but can pose a threat to smaller fish, snails, and crustaceans if housed together. It is recommended to have a deep sandy substrate of at least 2 inches to accommodate their burrowing habit.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
The Pastel Ringwrasse is labeled as having average hardiness and requires a tank with a minimum size of 1500 liters to thrive when fully grown. Due to their fast growth rate and tendency to rearrange rocks and corals in search of food, careful consideration must be given to their tank mates to prevent any harm.
Reef Suitability
Receiving a reef-safe designation with caution, this species can be introduced into a reef aquarium, but attention should be paid to their behavior, especially towards small invertebrates, to avoid any conflicts.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, an aquarium housing the Pastel Ringwrasse should have ample swimming space and a varied diet that includes fish, larger crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure a stable environment with water parameters ranging from kh: 8-12, pH: 8.1-8.4, salinity: 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 22.2-25.6 degrees Celsius.
Behaviour
Known for their active nature, these wrasses may jump out of open aquariums, so a well-covered tank is essential. They have a penchant for moving rocks and occasionally smashing their prey on hard surfaces before consumption. This behavior showcases their unique feeding habits within a captive setting.
Feeding and Diet
The Pastel Ringwrasse is predominantly carnivorous and consumes a variety of prey, from invertebrates to small fish. Their diet can include fish, larger crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, and other small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia to fulfill their nutritional requirements.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically ranging from East Africa to South Africa and east to Samoa and the Line Islands, this species thrives in a diverse range of marine habitats. Their presence in reef aquaria serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also aids in controlling unwanted invertebrates like flatworms and pyramide snails.