Harlequin Tuskfish (Asia Pacific)
Wrasses are prone to jumping from the aquarium when startled or excited so we recommend a secure lid. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. Most species may be kept in pairs or harems as long as they are added together or females first. They do not appreciate living with other species of wrasse, so any aquarium with several species must be large enough and the most peaceful species added first.
They should be fed two to three times a day plenty of high quality meaty items, frozen Mysis shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine algae and Spirulina.
These wrasses are easy to keep and have active personalities. They have big appetites for invertebrates, especially shrimp, as well as other crustaceans, snails, worms including bristleworms, mantis shrimp and starfish among others. They do not bother corals or anemones, but may flip over rocks in their search for food. They may also bully or eat small fish, but are typically nonaggressive with other large fish as long as they have a different shape. Similarly shaped fish are seen as a threat and may be targeted; we do not recommend keeping them with small species such as flasher wrasses.
The stunning Harlequin Tusk fish is an incredible animal with attractive colors and personality. Its body is as white as snow with wide vertical bands in a pumpkin to tangerine color outlined in deep blue. Its eyes are red, and its body changes from white to navy blue at the base of its white tail. This fish is famous for its large blue teeth. When young it has several dark eyespots on its dorsal fin. Specimens from Australia have more saturated colors overall, and have more blue near the tail. It grows to 10 inches and needs an aquarium of at least 150 gallons.
