Bluehead Wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum)
Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
Initial phase fish are yellow with a white stripe; terminal phase (males) develop a distinctive blue head and green body with red and blue bands. Adults reach up to 9 inches with a slender, streamlined wrasse body.
Diet and feeding
Primarily feeds on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and algae in the wild. In captivity, offer quality flake food, small frozen foods (mysis shrimp, copepods), and occasional vegetable matter. Feed 1–2 times daily.
Difficulty and care for the Bluehead Wrasse
Easy - Common Atlantic species. Best suited for beginners.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations
Origin and habitat
Western Atlantic, from Florida and Bermuda throughout the Caribbean to Brazil.
Keeper notes
Common Atlantic species. Distinctive blue head in terminal phase males. Hardy and reef safe.
Log Bluehead Wrasse in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bluehead Wrasse alongside everything else in your reef.
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