Hardwicke Wrasse (Thalassoma hardwicke)

Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Hardwicke Wrasse

Quick facts

Scientific nameThalassoma hardwicke
FamilyLabridae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size9 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Hardwicke Wrasse is a small, elongated fish with a distinctive color pattern of blue-green body coloration and orange-yellow markings or stripes, particularly on the head and gill covers. Males display more vibrant orange coloring than females.

Difficulty and care for the Hardwicke Wrasse

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea through Southeast Asia to the Philippines and westward to Indonesia.

Log Hardwicke 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 Hardwicke Wrasse alongside everything else in your reef.