Checkerboard Wrasse

Checkerboard Wrasse Also known as: Harlequin Wrasse, Checkerboard Wrasse The Checkerboard Wrasse is a distinctive species featuring a bold black and white checkerboard pattern. This active, reef-safe wrasse adds unique visual interest to aquariums. With proper care, this peaceful species makes an excellent addition to community reef tanks. Key Features Scientific Name: Halichoeres hortulanus Common Names: Checkerboard Wrasse, Harlequin Wrasse Adult Size: Up to 10-12 inches Lifespan: 8-10 years with proper care Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive Reef Compatibility: Reef safe with caution Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum Experience Level: Moderate Habitat & Tank Requirements Tank Environment: Provide a spacious aquarium with plenty of live rock arranged to create caves and swimming lanes. These active species need substantial open swimming space. Require 2-3 inches of sand substrate for burrowing and sleeping. Well-established tank with stable conditions preferred. Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C) Salinity: 1.020-1.025 pH: 8.1-8.4 Good water quality important Equipment Recommendations: Quality protein skimmer Efficient filtration system Moderate to strong water flow Tight-fitting lid Diet & Feeding Checkerboard Wrasses are carnivores with hearty appetites. Recommended foods include: Staples: High-quality marine pellets, marine flake food Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped clams, krill, mixed seafood preparations Live Foods: Feeder shrimp (occasionally) Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily Special Note: Enthusiastic eaters; may outcompete slower tank mates Notes & Considerations Juvenile and adult coloration is dramatically different – juveniles have distinctive checkerboard patterns. Adults develop more muted coloration with age. Active swimmers that utilize all areas of the aquarium. Generally peaceful but can be territorial toward similar species. May eat small ornamental shrimp and crustaceans. Excellent at controlling bristle worms, pyramidellid snails, and flatworms. Safe with corals but caution with very small invertebrates. Burrows into sand at night for sleeping and protection. Provide adequate sand depth (2-3 inches minimum) for burrowing. Can be kept with other peaceful semi-aggressive fish. May show aggression toward new additions once established. Fast grower; requires larger aquarium as it matures. Sequential hermaphrodites; can change sex. Secure aquarium lid recommended; wrasses can jump. Hardy and adaptable once acclimated. Why Choose a Quarantined Checkerboard Wrasse? Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this distinctive and active species.