Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse (Anampses Meleagrides)

The Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse, also known as the Spotted Wrasse, is a stunningly patterned fish that adds vibrant color and activity to a marine aquarium. Featuring a dark body covered in intricate white spots and a striking yellow tail, this wrasse is as beautiful as it is fascinating to observe. Known for its foraging behavior, the Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse will actively search for small invertebrates in the substrate, making it beneficial for pest control. However, it requires a well-established tank with plenty of rockwork, a soft sandy substrate, and a secure lid to prevent jumping.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 7 inches.
• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum; a large tank with plenty of rockwork, open swimming space, and a deep, soft sand bed for burrowing is essential.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small invertebrates such as copepods, amphipods, and bristle worms. In captivity, it can be fed a variety of meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Frequent feedings are recommended to meet its high energy requirements.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; generally peaceful with other fish, but may become territorial with other wrasses, particularly in smaller tanks.
• Skill Level: Advanced; the Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse can be challenging to keep due to its specialized diet and sensitivity to water conditions. It requires a mature tank with an established microfauna population.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; while generally safe with corals, it may consume small invertebrates such as shrimp, snails, and worms, making it best suited for fish-only or carefully planned reef tanks.

Special Requirement - Sand Bed and Secure Lid
The Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse is a known burrower and will bury itself in the sand to sleep or hide when threatened. Providing a deep, soft sand substrate is essential for this natural behavior. Additionally, this wrasse is a jumper and requires a secure, tightly fitted lid to prevent it from leaping out of the tank.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse is distinguished by its dark blue or black body with dense white spots, contrasted by a bright yellow tail. Its unique pattern and coloration make it a visually stunning fish, especially under reef lighting that highlights its intricate details​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and sandy lagoon areas, the Yellow Tail Tamarin Wrasse is commonly found in reef slopes and sandy substrates where it forages for small invertebrates.