Ornate Wrasse – Halichoeres ornatissimus
 
The Ornate Wrasse is a beautifully coloured and highly active reef wrasse, admired for its intricate red, green and blue patterning, elegant body shape and constant movement throughout the aquarium. Juveniles and females often display the distinctive two dorsal spots, adding to the species’ attractive and easily recognisable appearance.
 
This species is generally reef safe with corals and makes a fantastic addition to a mature marine aquarium with plenty of live rock, open swimming space and a suitable sand bed. Like many Halichoeres wrasse, it will bury itself in the sand at night or when startled, so a soft sand bed and tight-fitting lid are important.
 
The Ornate Wrasse may help control small pests and natural microfauna within the rockwork, but care should be taken with very small ornamental invertebrates such as tiny shrimp, fan worms or delicate clean-up crew species. Feed a varied diet of enriched frozen foods, mysis, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood and quality marine pellets to maintain colour, condition and long-term health.
 
A stunning, active and characterful wrasse that brings colour, elegance and natural behaviour to a well-maintained reef aquarium.