Three-spot wrasse
Halichoeres trimaculatus
Family : Labridae
The three-spot wrasse is a robust and active fish, recognizable by its three dark spots on the back. It is valued for its cleaning role and ability to remove parasites.
Description
This wrasse reaches up to 12 cm and has an elongated body of variable color (green, brown, reddish) with three distinctive black spots on the upper side. Males are more colorful than females. It is diurnal and constantly sifts through sand in search of prey. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite. It can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics. It is known to 'clean' other fish by removing parasites. In aquariums, it needs a sandy substrate to bury itself at night.
Habitat
Region :
Coral reefs and lagoons
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, GH 8-12, KH 7-11. Minimum tank volume 300 liters. Carnivorous diet: brine shrimp, mysis, small crustaceans, worms. It is semi-aggressive: may harass smaller fish or other wrasses. A lid is necessary. A fine sand substrate is essential for its well-being. It cohabits best with medium to large fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L, phosphates 0.05 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
