Family: Labridae
Distribution: The Ring Wrasse is endemic to the marine waters of the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea. Its range stretches out to include South Africa, the Society and Pitcairn islands, north to southern Japan, south to south-eastern Australia and Rapa Island. It is generally found on the coral reefs and rocky substrates.
PH: 8.0 – 8.5
Temperature: 22°C -26°C (72 – 78F)
Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025
Description: Two different types of colouration are found depending where the Ring Wrasse is from. In one form, the female is mostly black and the males are mostly green with a blue face. The other type includes a white central body band. They can grow up to 40cm (15 inches).
Diet: As with all wrasses, the Ring Wrasse is carnivorous and prefers live food. In the wild it eats small fish and crustacean. Provide such tasty treats as fireworms, clams, mysid shrimp, squid, flaked foods, tubeworms, flatworms, scallop clam and other crustacean.
Breeding: Like other wrasse, Hologymnosus annulatus, 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 semi-aggressive Ring Wrasse is recommended for moderate to expert aquarists. Decorate your marine aquarium with rockwork, a fine, thick layered sandy base and caves in order to mimic its natural habitat. Allow for both high light levels and shaded areas. Large aquariums, about 700 litres (185 gallons), are a must for this fish due to its unpredictable temperament. Overall they are easy to keep but you must watch them with other fish.
Remember that this species is not necessarily reef safe, so exercise necessary caution.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species:
Due to the potential for aggression and size of the Ring Wrasse, it is best not to include smaller fish tankmates in a community aquarium as they could become food.
Depending on the size and temperament of your wrasse, potential tankmates could include the hogfish, parrotfish, pseudochromis, squirrelfish, puffers, tangs and surgeons.
Originally posted 2009-11-22 11:20:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
