More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 1000 litres / 264.17 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 30.0cm / 11.81inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| Temperament | Might be aggressive towards other species |
| 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 Thalassoma trilobatum, commonly known as the Christmas wrasse, belongs to the Labridae family. These fish are visually striking, with a marked difference in appearance between juveniles and adults. They are coveted for their beauty and are often sold, although they can outgrow most home aquariums.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable with care, the Christmas wrasse demands a large aquarium, especially when fully grown. These fish can become aggressive towards smaller tank mates, posing a threat to small fish, snails, and crustaceans. Known to jump out of open aquariums, they require tightly secured lids to prevent escape.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
This species is hardy but requires frequent feeding, ideally three times a day, due to their high activity levels. They thrive on a varied diet of fish, larger crustaceans, invertebrates, and zooplankton. Offering hiding places like live rocks is essential, and they need a spacious tank for swimming.
Reef Suitability
Reef-compatible with caution, the Christmas wrasse is safe for reefs but may exhibit aggression towards other species in the tank. They are known to help combat pyramid snails and can remove parasites from fish, contributing to overall tank health.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up the aquarium for Christmas wrasses, it is crucial to provide ample space for swimming and ensure the tank has secure lids to prevent jumping. Offering hiding spots among live rocks, a varied diet, and keeping tank mates that can withstand their aggressive tendencies are key factors in their care.
Behaviour
Christmas wrasses can be aggressive towards smaller fish, snails, and crustaceans. They are active swimmers and require a spacious tank for adequate exercise. These fish might exhibit gender changes, with females transitioning to males as needed.
Feeding and Diet
These wrasses feed on larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. They must be fed a varied diet to thrive in captivity, requiring frequent feeding throughout the day to sustain their energy levels.
Dimorphism
Christmas wrasses exhibit dimorphism, with notable visual differences between juveniles and adults. They are hermaphroditic, capable of changing gender from female to male, and can live in pairs consisting of a male and a female.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Christmas wrasses are found from East Africa to the Pitcairn Islands. They inhabit areas from rocky shores to coral reefs, showcasing vibrant colors and active behaviors in their natural habitats.