Green Wrasse (Haliochoeres Chloropterus)

The Green Wrasse, also known as the Pastel Green Wrasse, is a vibrant, hardy fish known for its vivid green coloration and active personality. This wrasse is a great addition to larger reef or fish-only tanks, where it helps with pest control by feeding on small invertebrates like flatworms and bristle worms. It’s an excellent choice for beginners due to its resilience, though it requires a soft sand substrate to burrow into for sleeping and a secure lid, as it may jump when startled.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 6 inches.
• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum; requires ample swimming space and rockwork for hiding, along with a sandy substrate.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small crustaceans, invertebrates, and pest organisms. In captivity, it accepts mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, high-quality pellets, and finely chopped seafood.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; generally peaceful with most tankmates but may show territorial behavior toward smaller, delicate fish or other wrasses.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; hardy and adaptable, suitable for aquarists of all experience levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe with caution; while it generally does not harm corals, it may prey on small invertebrates like ornamental shrimp and small snails.

Special Requirements - Sand Substrate and Secure Lid
The Green Wrasse is a burrower and will dive into the sand to sleep or when feeling threatened, making a soft sandy substrate essential. It is also known to jump when startled, so a secure, tightly fitted lid is required to prevent escape.

Compatibility
The Green Wrasse does well in community tanks with other semi-aggressive or peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid housing with small, delicate invertebrates, as it may consume them, especially in smaller tanks or where food is limited.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Green Wrasse displays a striking green body with subtle yellow or blue markings, which vary slightly based on individual and habitat. This vivid coloration, combined with its active swimming behavior, adds energy and color to any aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly in shallow reefs and lagoons with sandy substrates, where it forages for small invertebrates. It thrives in tanks with ample rockwork and open sand beds.