Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon Choati)

The Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse, a rare gem from the southern Great Barrier Reef, is prized for its striking white body adorned with flame-like orange and red blotches, along with a yellow-edged black eyespot near its gills. Its vibrant coloration and unique behaviors make it one of the most sought-after wrasses in the aquarium trade. Known for its delicate nature, this species requires a mature reef tank with stable conditions, making it best suited for experienced aquarists.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum; requires a sandy substrate for burrowing and plenty of rockwork for grazing and shelter.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on copepods, amphipods, and other small crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, it may accept live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and other finely chopped meaty items. A thriving copepod population is essential for long-term success.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; coexists well with other non-aggressive tankmates. Avoid aggressive or boisterous species that may outcompete it for food or cause stress.
• Skill Level: Advanced; due to its dietary needs and sensitivity to water conditions, it is recommended for experienced aquarists with established reef tanks.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or larger invertebrates but may prey on small ornamental shrimp or tiny crustaceans.

Special Requirement - Lid and Sand 
The Choat's Red Leopard Wrasse requires a tight-fitting lid to prevent escape, as it is prone to jumping. A fine sand substrate is crucial for its natural burrowing behavior, as it uses the sand to hide and rest at night.

Special Feature - Vibrant Coloration and Burrowing Behavior
The Choat’s Red Leopard Wrasse is known for its unique flame-like orange and red markings, which create a dramatic contrast against its white body. It exhibits a fascinating burrowing behavior, retreating into the sand at night or when feeling threatened, making a fine sand substrate essential.

Compatibility
This wrasse is peaceful and thrives in community setups with other non-aggressive fish. It requires tankmates that will not outcompete it for food or disturb its calm demeanor. A stable and mature reef environment with abundant live rock is crucial for its well-being.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found in the southern Great Barrier Reef and northern New South Wales, it inhabits sandy reef zones and coral rubble, where it forages for small crustaceans.
• Tank Setup: Replicate its natural habitat with a fine sand substrate for burrowing and plenty of live rock for grazing and shelter.