Macropharyngodon choati

Datasheet

General Description

The Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse, scientifically known as Macropharyngodon choati, is a species native to the eastern Australian Coast, inhabiting the southern regions of the Great Barrier Reef and northern New South Wales. These wrasses exhibit varying appearances based on age and gender, with adults showcasing a white body adorned with red/orange spots, prominent red facial stripes, and a distinctive yellow patch outlined in blue/green on their gill covers. In contrast, juveniles display a semi-transparent white body with sparse orange patches, while terminal phase males feature a colorful face pattern with alternating green and orange stripes and yellow lips.

Aquarium Suitability

This species, commonly referred to as Choati Wrasse, is classified as suitable exclusively for expert aquarists. Due to their specific care requirements and challenging adaptation to captive environments, these wrasses necessitate a well-established aquarium environment to thrive successfully. The Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse is characterized by a peaceful temperament, making it an intriguing addition to a reef tank if provided with adequate conditions and care.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse demands meticulous attention from experienced aquarists due to their specialized needs. These carnivorous fishes thrive on a diet comprising vitamin-enriched frozen mysis and brine shrimp, along with other meaty foods, supplemented with high-quality marine flake and pellet food. Maintaining stable water parameters with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 is crucial for their well-being.

Reef Suitability

Renowned for their peaceful temperament, Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse is deemed compatible with reef environments, provided that the tank incorporates a fine sandy substrate to accommodate their burrowing behavior. Despite their reef suitability, these wrasses should be introduced to the aquarium well in advance of larger or more active tank mates to prevent potential territorial conflicts.

Aquarium Setup

To set up an ideal habitat for the Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse, aquarists should ensure the presence of a fine sand substrate where the fish can bury themselves for protection. A well-established aquarium with ample hiding spots and live rock formations mimicking their natural habitat is recommended. Ensuring a peaceful tank environment with appropriate tank mates and offering regular feedings of suitable foods are essential for the optimal care of these wrasses.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful demeanor, Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse tend to exhibit natural hunting behaviors, foraging for small crustaceans throughout the day. These wrasses may display unique social dynamics within a group, with the most dominant individual having the ability to transition into a male, showcasing vibrant facial colors as a dominant feature.

Feeding and Diet

Maintaining a diverse diet is key to the health of Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse, with a focus on vitamin-enriched frozen mysis and brine shrimp, marine flake, and pellet foods. Offering a varied diet rich in nutrients is crucial for meeting the nutritional needs of these carnivorous fish, promoting their overall well-being and vitality.