Black Leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon Negrosensis)

The Black Leopard Wrasse, also known as the Negros Wrasse, is a stunning fish with intricate patterns and a generally peaceful nature, making it an attractive and popular choice for reef aquariums. With its dark body speckled in white or light-blue dots, this wrasse stands out beautifully against live rock and coral. It is an active fish and a beneficial addition to reef tanks due to its natural pest control of small invertebrates, but it requires specific conditions, including a sandy substrate and a secure lid.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 5 inches.
• Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum; a tank with ample rockwork for hiding, open swimming areas, and a soft sandy substrate for burrowing is recommended.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. A varied diet with frequent feedings will help it adjust to captivity.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; generally well-suited to community and reef tanks but should not be housed with aggressive or highly territorial species.
• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced; requires a mature tank with stable water conditions, frequent feedings, and a sand bed.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or most invertebrates. It may consume small pests like flatworms, making it beneficial for pest control in reef tanks.

Special Requirements - Sand and Lid
The Black Leopard Wrasse is a burrower and requires a soft sand substrate to dive into for sleeping and when startled. Additionally, this species is a known jumper, so a secure, tightly fitted lid is essential to prevent escapes.

Compatibility
This wrasse is generally peaceful and safe with corals and invertebrates, making it a suitable addition to reef tanks. It may exhibit territorial behavior if housed with other leopard wrasses or similar wrasse species, so ample space and hiding spots are ideal.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Black Leopard Wrasse has a dark body covered in a beautiful array of light-blue to white spots, giving it a striking, leopard-like appearance. Its unique coloration and intricate patterns make it a standout in any marine tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, this wrasse inhabits reef environments with sandy substrates, where it can burrow to hide or rest. It thrives in stable, mature tanks with plenty of rockwork and sand for natural behaviors.