Blue-Headed Wrasse

Blue-Headed Wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum)

The Bluehead Wrasse is a stunning, multicolored species known for its dramatic color variations based on gender and age. Juvenile Bluehead Wrasses are typically yellow with black markings on their sides and sometimes on their fins. As they mature, males develop a striking pattern of black and white stripes that separates a vibrant blue-green and yellow front from their distinctive blue head. Females are entirely turquoise, accented by two black stripes. For optimal care, the Bluehead Wrasse should be housed in a 75-gallon or larger aquarium with ample live rock for hiding and a sandy substrate for burrowing at night. Larger, social tankmates are recommended, as Bluehead Wrasses can be territorial and may harass new additions. Ideally, they should be the last fish added to the tank. As carnivores, Bluehead Wrasses feed on fish, crustaceans, motile invertebrates, and worms, which means they may help control populations of unwanted mantis shrimp and bristle worms in the aquarium.