Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse (Anampses meleagrides)
Max Size: 9 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
The Yellowtail Wrasse, known by various names such as the Yellow-tail Tamarin or Spotted Wrasse, boasts a distinct appearance with its black body adorned with a diverse array of white dots, while its tail is prominently colored in a vibrant shade of yellow.
To provide a suitable habitat for the Yellowtail Wrasse, a well-equipped aquarium with a minimum capacity of 50 gallons is necessary. It is important to ensure the presence of a 2-inch layer of live sand in the tank, which allows the fish to bury itself as part of its natural behavior. Additionally, it's worth noting that this species has a tendency to jump, so a secure lid for the aquarium is imperative to prevent any unintended escapes.
One of the key challenges in keeping the Yellowtail Wrasse in captivity lies in its feeding habits. Upon initial introduction into the aquarium, it may require live saltwater feeder shrimp to entice it to eat. This fish predominantly feeds on very small invertebrates, particularly amphiopods that grow on live rock. Therefore, it's essential to provide a diet that includes live, small feeder shrimps such as brine or mysid shrimp, as well as finely chopped marine meats to meet its nutritional needs.