Cheilinus bimaculatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Two Spot Wrasse, scientifically known as Cheilinus bimaculatus, belongs to the Labridae family and is part of the group of ornate wrasses known as Maori Wrasses. These wrasses are characterized by their intricate facial markings, similar to the facial tattoos of the Maori people of New Zealand. The Two Spot Wrasse displays stunning tomato-red coloration with two distinct dark spots on its face, creating a vibrant and exotic appearance.

Aquarium Suitability

With an easy care level, the Two Spot Wrasse is suitable for fish-only marine tanks or Fish-Only-With-Live Rock aquariums. It thrives in a well-established saltwater aquarium of at least 75 gallons, aquascaped with live rock to mimic its natural habitat. This wrasse requires open substrate areas and swimming spaces to feel at home.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

The Two Spot Wrasse is relatively easy to care for once acclimated to its environment. Initially shy and sensitive, it becomes hardy and gregarious over time. To reduce stress, house them with peaceful tank mates and avoid overcrowding. However, mature Two Spot Wrasses may display aggressive behavior toward similar-sized fish, so it's advisable to keep only one per tank.

Reef Suitability

The Two Spot Wrasse is not reef-compatible due to its carnivorous diet and occasional territorial aggression, making it unsuitable for a reef setup.

Aquarium Setup

To create an ideal environment for the Two Spot Wrasse, maintain water conditions with pH levels between 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a moderate carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH. Provide a varied diet including vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, clam and mussel meat, along with other meaty foods in small quantities multiple times a day.

Behaviour

This wrasse exhibits contrasting colorations and behaviors, transitioning from shy to active and sociable once settled. It is essential to establish a stress-free environment during the initial acclimation period and monitor interactions with tank mates as they may become territorial.

Feeding and Diet

As a carnivorous species, the Two Spot Wrasse feeds on fireworms, snails, shrimp, crabs, tubeworms, and flatworms in the wild. In captivity, provide a diet rich in vitamin-enriched foods such as frozen shrimp and clam/mussel meat, feeding small amounts multiple times daily.

Dimorphism

Male and female Two Spot Wrasses show sexual dimorphism, with males having a rhomboid caudal fin often with a filament, while females sport a round tail without a filament. In captivity, successful reproduction has been achieved under optimal conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

Two Spot Wrasses inhabit outer reef slopes and deep lagoons characterized by rubble and algae. They are native to certain regions and primarily found in the wild across their natural habitat.