Fourline Wrasse
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A small, secretive species for the larger reef aquarium. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
This diminutive wrasse is an interesting choice both for a nano-reef or larger reef aquarium. Like others in the genus, this species is secretive when first added to the aquarium.
Family: Labridae
Other common name(s):
- Four-lined Wrasse
Native range:
- Japan
- Hawaii
- Tuamotu Islands
- Austral Islands
Habitat: This is a secretive species that is found hiding around the base of small heads of coral in seaward reefs.
Maximum length: 7.3 cm (3 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 38 L (10 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Meaty foods, including finely shredded frozen seafood, mysid shrimp, frozen preparations, and pigment-enriched flake food. Feed at least once a day, unless you have a healthy stock of crustaceans and worms for it to feed on, in which case you can feed every other day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Although small, it can become belligerent when space is limited, so it is not safe to keep with docile species in a small tank. Groups can be kept in large aquariums (180 gallons [684 L] or more), although there is always a risk of fighting among males (because they are not sexually dichromatic, it will not be possible to ensure that a group does not have one or more males). I have had it harass gobies, assessors, and other wrasses in small reef tanks.
| Common name | Fourline Wrasse +, and Four-lined Wrasse + |
| Family | Labridae + |
| Genus | Pseudocheilinus + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 3 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 10 gal + |
| Native range | Japan +, Hawaii +, Tuamotu Islands +, and Austral Islands + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | tetrataenia + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |