Clown Wrasse

The clown wrasse is a brightly colored marine fish belonging to the family Labridae, commonly found in coral reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific region. Its scientific name is typically Coris aygula, although there are other wrasses often referred to as clown wrasses due to their vibrant patterns and colors.

Appearance: Juveniles and adults look quite different. Juveniles are usually smaller and display striking patterns of white, yellow, and black. As they mature, their colors may deepen and change, often with a more elongated body.

Size: Adults can grow up to 15 inches (38 cm) or more, depending on the species.

Behavior: They are active swimmers and can often be seen darting around coral structures. They’re known to “sleep” in the sand at night by burrowing into it for safety.

Diet: Carnivorous, feeding primarily on small invertebrates like crustaceans, mollusks, and worms.

The clown wrasse is a popular choice for marine aquariums due to its vivid appearance and engaging behavior. However, it requires:

• A large tank (minimum 100 gallons) with plenty of swimming space and sand for burrowing.
• A diet of high-quality frozen or live foods to mimic its natural hunting behavior.
• A secure tank cover, as wrasses are known for their jumping tendencies.