The Melanurus Wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus), also known as the Hoeven's Wrasse, is a durable, coral safe fish that can be kept with other mild mannered Wrasses as well as in groups of its own kind. It needs a 50+ gallon aquarium with a sandy bottom and ample rock work. This fish will dive into the sand when scared and when its rests at night. The Melanurus requires a tight fitting lid as most Wrasses are prone to jumping. The diet of this fish includes benthic invertebrates including fireworms and pyramidellid snails which are pests in the reef aquarium. Conversely, they may also consume fan worms, small shrimp, snails and other crustaceans as they cannot differentiate between desirable and undesirable inverts. Melanurus Wrasses should be fed a diet consisting of meaty foods like mysis, brine, LRS, & Rods, as well as pellets or flakes. Max size is around 6".
