Psychedelic Wrasse Female

Psychedelic Wrasse Female (Anampses chrysocephalus)

The Psychedelic Wrasse, commonly known as the Red-tail, Tamarin, or Psych-head Wrasse, is a captivating species that has intrigued aquarists for years. This beautiful fish is one of thirteen in the genus Anampses, part of the larger Labridae family. Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, it is characterized by prominent front teeth that help it scrape prey from rocky substrates. Like all Anampses species, the Psychedelic Wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite. Initially, all males develop from fully functional “initial phase” females. The dominant female in a group transforms into a “terminal-phase” male, exhibiting dramatic changes in color. Initial-phase females are primarily dark brown with white spots and a bright red tail, while terminal males sport a lighter brown body with a vibrant orange head covered in blue spots and radiating lines, earning them the nickname “psych-head.” Females typically reach 3 to 4 inches, while terminal males can grow up to 7 inches.