Family: Labridae
Distribution: Halichoeres nebulosus are found throughout the sub-tropical and tropical marine waters of the Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea. Additionally, the Nebulosus Wrasse has been found off the north-western coast off Western Australia, and from the Northern part of the Great Barrier Reef to the Central coast of New South Wales in Australia. It inhabits reef flats, rocky shores, and reef margins.
PH: 8.2
Temperature: 23°C -28°C (74 – 82F)
Salinity: 1.023 – 1.028 (at 25°C)
Description: The Clouded Rainbowfish can be differentiated from other Halichoeres by its characteristic boomerang-shaped pink cheek marking. As the fish matures, this distinctive marking will become more distinct and vibrant in colour. This pinkish layer of spots and streaks is found all over its body. Commonly called Nebulosus Wrasse or Cloud Wrasse, it grows up to 12cm long. The females are normally less radiantly coloured although still display their distinctive pinkish eye and cheek band.
Diet: Feed your Nebulosus Wrasse twice a day on brine shrimp, top quality flaked food, small shrimp, krill, flatworms and mysid shrimp. While they prefer live food, it will feed on frozen offerings as well.
Breeding: Like other wrasse, Halichoeres nebulosus can change sex during their life to maintain the balance of dominance in a harem, which consists of a dominant male and multiple females in their natural marine environment. The females release their eggs into the water and the ocean currents take them away. As such, they are notoriously difficult to breed in captivity.
Comments: The peaceful Nebulosus Wrasse is suitable for a moderately experienced aquarist. If its requirements are met, this fish is quite hardy. This powerful swimmer needs rockwork, a big sand bed and caves in which to hide. They are reef-safe and will co-exist happily in a marine aquarium.
Choose a 500L aquarium and ensure it has a tight-fitting lid as these fish are excellent leapers.
Tip: These fish are no longer known as Octocyodon nebulosus but much of the educational material relating to this fish will still refer to it as such.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species:
While Nebulosus Wrasse are usually peaceful and happy community marine dwellers, they can get aggressive with fellow tankmates.
Depending on the size and temperament of your wrasse, potential tankmates could include the hogfish, parrotfish, pseudochromis, squirrelfish, puffers, tangs and surgeons and live corals.
Originally posted 2010-03-15 20:22:20. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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