Wrasses
Checkerboard Wrasse
Contact us for price and availability
Live animal: Overnight delivery, Tuesday–Friday (Saturday $25 extra, arranged by phone or email). Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.We ship daily. Prices and availability may change. Images are for illustration only and may vary from the actual product. Stock is subject to change.
- Packed to order with heat or cold packs for the season
- Eating and settled in our systems before it ships
- Questions? Ask a reef keeper
Share
About this fish
About this fish
Checkerboard Wrasse (Halichoeres hortulanus) is a lively saltwater wrasse for the home aquarium. In a reef or fish setup, it can add constant movement as it cruises the rockwork, and it may also help control certain aquarium pests such as flatworms and bristle worms. This species is known for active daytime behavior, with resting behavior at night that can include burrowing into the sand or hiding in a mucus cocoon. Overall, it’s a useful choice if you want an energetic, scavenging-style fish that also brings personality to the tank.
Features:
- Active wrasse that cruises the rockwork throughout the day
- Often considered reef safe in many community setups
- May help control pests such as flatworms and bristle worms
- Typically accepts a varied diet including frozen foods and quality pellets
- Often buries in the sand or hides in a mucus cocoon at night—sand helps
- Strong jumpers—use a tight lid and secure tank cover
- Arrives in stock sizes (S, M, L); acclimate slowly and provide a quiet settling spot
Specifications:
- Scientific name: Halichoeres hortulanus
- Category: Wrasses (saltwater fish)
- Tank setup: Saltwater aquarium
- Diet: Frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and quality pellets
- Feeding frequency: 2–3 times per day
- Night behavior: May bury in sand or hide in a mucus cocoon
- Aquarium cover: Tight lid recommended (jumping risk)
- Sizes offered: S, M, L
