Thalassoma

Thalassoma amblycephalum

(Bleeker, 1856)

Bluntheaded Wrasse

Likely Reef Tank Suitable

Likely Fish-Only Tank Suitable

Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Somalia and South Africa to Line, Marquesan and Tuamotu Islands, north to Southern Japan, south to northern New Zealand and Lord Howe and Rapa Islands.

Size: 7 inches (16 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow lagoons and seaward reefs and usually found at depths between 3 – 50 feet (1 – 15 m) where it feeds on crustaceans/zooplankton.

General Husbandry: Occasionally seen in the trade with the adult male often having a greenish blue head, then a yellow band, and the remaining body a mottled red. Females are generally brown with white on the undersides. Juveniles are brownish with a white belly.

Because this species is mainly a zooplankton feeder, it can be maintained with peaceful slightly larger tankmates in reef or fish-only aquariums having rocky crevices and caves to hunt and hide in. It will also quickly burrow into the sand bed if frightened, and occasionally for sleeping at night. May search bottom areas for tasty bottom dwelling invertebrates, e.g., ornamental shrimp and snails. Keep in mind those in this genus are highly active swimmers and are constantly on the go.

Requires a meaty diet, including fortified brine shrimp, mysis, and other meaty type marine-based frozen or fresh foods, and should be fed three times daily. Will also accept flake and other dry foods, such as pellet foods.

Taxonomy:

Order: Perciformes

Suborder: Labroidei

Family: Labridae

Genus: Thalassoma

FYI: Will jump out of uncovered aquariums.

One male per aquarium.

Experience Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet: Carnivore

Coral Safe: Yes

Fish Safe: With caution