The Red Tail Wrasse features a spotted body with a red tail. The Red Tail Wrasse is more commonly known as Psychedelic Wrasse, Redtailed Wrasse, Redtail Hawaii Wrasse, Redtail Tamarin Wrasse. It requires a tank  with at least a 2" layer of fine, sandy substrate which is ideal as it buries itself during night-time or if it feels threatened.

Red Tail Wrasse: A Captivating Addition to Your Marine Aquarium

The Red Tail Wrasse (Anampses chrysocephalus) is a captivating and popular species within saltwater marine aquariums. Renowned for its vibrant colors and engaging behavior, it is a prized addition to any enthusiast's tank. This educational guide aims to provide an in-depth overview of the Red Tail Wrasse, covering various aspects crucial for its successful care and maintenance in captivity.

Habitat of Red Tail Wrasse

Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, the Red Tail Wrasse inhabits coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky coastlines. It thrives in areas with ample hiding spots, including crevices and coral formations, and prefers environments with moderate to strong water flow.

Reef Compatibility of Red Tail Wrasse

The Red Tail Wrasse is not considered reef-safe, making it an excellent choice for FOWLR aquariums. Caution should be exercised with delicate invertebrates such as tiny shrimp and ornamental crustaceans, as the wrasse may view them as prey.

Size and Lifespan of Red Tail Wrasse

This species typically reaches 5 to 7 inches (12 to 18 centimeters) in captivity, with males often growing slightly larger than females. Under optimal conditions, the Red Tail Wrasse can live for 5 to 7 years or even longer with proper care.

Diet in Captivity for Red Tail Wrasse

In the wild, the Red Tail Wrasse primarily feeds on small invertebrates, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In captivity, it readily accepts a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods such as brine and mysis shrimp, and occasionally live foods to mimic its natural diet.

Aquaculture and Availability of Red Tail Wrasse

While the Red Tail Wrasse is less commonly aquacultured than some other species, it is periodically available to hobbyists through reputable suppliers and online retailers like Saltwaterfish.com.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates for Red Tail Wrasse

The Red Tail Wrasse generally exhibits peaceful behavior towards other tankmates, mainly when introduced to the aquarium at a young age.

• Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)
• Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto)
• Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loriculus)
• Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica)
• Naso Tang (Naso lituratus)

Sexual Dimorphism and Coloration Changes of Red Tail Wrasse

Juvenile Red-Tail Wrasses exhibit striking coloration featuring vibrant hues of yellow, blue, and orange, with distinct markings. As they mature, males develop a more intense coloration, including a red tail that gives the species its name, while females retain a subtler appearance.

Temperament of Red Tail Wrasse

The Red Tail Wrasse is generally peaceful but may display aggression towards conspecifics or similarly colored fish if the tank is too small or lacks hiding spots. Providing ample space and suitable habitat enrichment can help mitigate territorial behavior.

Tank Requirements for Red Tail Wrasse

To ensure the well-being of the Red Tail Wrasse, it is essential to provide a spacious aquarium with plenty of live rock and coral formations for hiding and exploration. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons (284 liters) is recommended to accommodate its active swimming behavior and territorial tendencies.

Water Conditions for Red Tail Wrasse

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health of the Red Tail Wrasse. Recommended water conditions include:

• pH: 8.1 to 8.4
• Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025
• Water Temperature: 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C)
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong, mimicking natural reef environments

Common Names of Red Tail Wrasse

The Red Tail Wrasse may also be known by other common names, such as golden wrasse or Yellowhead Wrasse.

Why Choose Red Tail Wrasse from Saltwaterfish.com

When purchasing the Red Tail Wrasse from Saltwaterfish.com, you can be assured of receiving a healthy and responsibly sourced specimen. Saltwaterfish.com is committed to providing top-quality marine livestock backed by expert advice and exceptional customer service, ensuring a seamless and rewarding aquarium ownership experience.

In conclusion, the Red Tail Wrasse is a captivating and rewarding species for saltwater marine enthusiasts. Its stunning colors, peaceful demeanor, and compatibility with reef environments make it an excellent addition to both beginner and experienced aquarists' collections. By adhering to proper care guidelines and providing suitable habitats, hobbyists can enjoy the beauty and charm of the Red Tail Wrasse for years to come.