| Halichoeres melanurus | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Labridae |
| Genus: | Halichoeres |
| Species: | H. melanurus |
| Binomial name | |
| Halichoeres melanurus (Bleeker, 1851) |
|
Halichoeres melanurus is a wrasse from the Western Pacific. It is generally readily available in the aquarium trade. The male of the species is more vibrant in colour generally, and when placed in the vicinity of one or more females may "flash" its colours with dramatically increased intensity. The female is can be easily differentiated from the male by the presence of ocelli markings (eye spots) on the dorsal and caudal fins. In aquaria environments the tank should have a 2-3 inch sand bed in which the fish may burrow when frightened or to sleep, as well as a tight fitting lid to prevent jumping. The Melanurus Wrasse is considered easy to keep, disease resistant, and will often accept almost any form of carnivore food, including brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, diced squid or krill and flakes. It grows to a size of 12 cm in length.