The Leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon meleagris), also known as the Blackspotted Wrasse or Guinea Fowl Wrasse, is a visually striking marine fish admired for its intricate patterns and colors.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️Caution
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 340 liters (90 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and zooplankton.
• Be aware of: Requires a well-established aquarium with live sand and rock; may prey on very small ornamental invertebrates; known to jump, so a secure lid is essential.
Appearance and Coloration
The Leopard Wrasse exhibits notable sexual dimorphism:
• Females and Juveniles: Whitish to greenish bodies adorned with numerous large, irregular black spots.
• Males: Reddish-orange coloration with greenish spots on each scale, edged in blue and black, and greenish bands on the head.
These distinctive patterns make the Leopard Wrasse a captivating addition to marine aquariums.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Native to the eastern Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, Leopard Wrasses inhabit coral reefs at depths up to 30 meters. They are often found in areas with abundant live rock and sandy substrates, where they forage for small invertebrates. Juveniles display different color patterns than adults, with dominating light colors and eyespots that blend in with soft coral habitats, potentially avoiding predation.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Leopard Wrasse in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 90-gallon (340 liters) aquarium is recommended.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Substrate: A sandy bottom is essential, as they burrow into the sand when frightened or sleeping.
• Aquascaping: Provide ample live rock to create hiding spots and foraging areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium will support their natural behaviors and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Leopard Wrasses are carnivorous and adapt well to captive diets:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp
• Vitamin-enriched frozen brine shrimp
• Other meaty foods
• High-quality marine flake and pellet food
Feeding small amounts multiple times a day can help maintain their energy levels and vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Leopard Wrasses are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly or in a male-female pair unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: May act aggressively towards other wrasses or similar-shaped fish, especially if inadequately fed or if the habitat lacks hiding places.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, and other non-aggressive wrasses. Caution is advised when housing with other wrasses or species with similar coloration.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate aggressive behaviors. Due to their territorial nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: Considered reef-safe, they should leave corals and other beneficial invertebrates alone.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
• Jumping Behavior: Known to be jumpers, so a covered aquarium is essential to prevent escape.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Leopard Wrasses can be a vibrant and beneficial addition to a marine aquarium.