The Melanurus Wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus), also known as the Tail Spot Wrasse, is an attractive and active marine fish belonging to the family Labridae.

Distribution and Habitat

Found in the Indo-Pacific from the Philippines to Indonesia, inhabiting shallow coral-rich reefs and protected lagoons.

Physical Description

Features a green body with a yellow tail and dark markings, highlighted with vibrant blue and pink longitudinal stripes along the flanks.

Diet and Feeding

Carnivorous, feeds on small crustaceans and invertebrates, frequently eradicating nuisance pests like red flatworms and montipora-eating nudibranchs.

Behavior and Reproduction

Protogynous hermaphrodites that are peaceful with other fishes and buries in sand at night to sleep.

Aquarium Care

Requires 30+ gallons with a deep sand bed for sleeping and burrowing, reef-safe, peaceful, and highly beneficial in reef aquariums.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.