Dragon Wrasse

Dragon Wrasse (Novaculichthys taeniourus) 

The Dragon Wrasse, also known as the Rockmover Wrasse, features striking coloration and fascinating behavior. Juveniles can display a range of hues from maroon to green, accented by white markings. Notably, the first two dorsal spines form a distinctive “cow-lick.” As they mature, adults lose the prominent dorsal spines and develop a light blue to green body with impressive darker markings. To thrive, the Dragon Wrasse requires a spacious aquarium of at least 180 gallons with a sandy substrate of 2-4 inches, allowing it to burrow and sleep in the sand. While it can be kept with larger or more aggressive fish, juveniles should be housed with more passive tank mates. It is best to keep only one Dragon Wrasse per tank, and it should not be placed in a reef aquarium.