The Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus ocellatus), also known as the Whitebarred Wrasse or Fivebarred Wrasse, is a vibrant and intriguing marine fish appreciated for its striking appearance and beneficial role in reef aquariums.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ⚠️ Caution
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ Caution
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 340 liters (90 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 12 cm (4.7 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and pests like pyramidellid snails and flatworms.
• Be aware of: May prey on small ornamental shrimp introduced after the wrasse is established; requires ample live rock for foraging and hiding; known to jump, so a secure lid is essential.
Appearance and Coloration
The Mystery Wrasse exhibits a captivating coloration:
• Body Color: Reddish-maroon with thin, white vertical stripes.
• Distinctive Markings: An eyespot surrounded by a yellowish hue on its green tail.
• Head: Yellow, blue, and purple hues outlining a “smile” on the face.
These features make it a visually appealing addition to marine aquariums.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
In the wild, Mystery Wrasses are found in the central western Pacific Ocean, from Japan to the Coral Sea. They inhabit coral reefs at depths ranging from 20 to 58 meters. They are often observed solitary or in small groups over sheltered reefs. Their diet mainly consists of small invertebrates.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Mystery Wrasse in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 90-gallon (340 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample space.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.021 – 1.025
• Substrate: A sandy bottom is beneficial, as they may burrow into the sand when frightened or sleeping.
• Aquascaping: Provide plenty of 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
Mystery 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
They are also known to feed on unwanted pests on live rock, such as pyramidellid snails and flatworms, making them beneficial for reef aquariums.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Mystery Wrasses are generally peaceful but can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior, especially towards similar species or new tank mates:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: May act aggressively towards peaceful wrasses and other easily intimidated 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 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. However, they may prey on small ornamental shrimp introduced after the wrasse is established.
• 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, Mystery Wrasses can be a vibrant and beneficial addition to a marine aquarium.