Care
The Creole Wrasse is known from the current-swept seaward reef slopes of Bermuda, southern Florida, and the Bahamas to northern South America, where it may be observed at depths of up to 100m (328ft). This species forms large aggregations, feeding on zooplankton, small jellyfishes, pteropods, tunicates, and invertebrate larvae. Juvenile fish (pictured here) are a beautiful light lavender-purple; adults take on a darker hue, developing yellow or red on the rear of the body and sometimes portions of the dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins turn blackish in colour. Young fish have an emarginate caudal fin, but this changes to lunate in adults. Creole Wrasses are not imported too often as they have an unfortunate track record of being rather delicate to handle and ship. Those that do enter the trade are best suited to experienced fishkeepers with spacious, mature aquaria. Quite unusually, these active fish tend to behave more like Anthias than your typical wrasse; they always fare best in good sized groups (introduced simultaneously) and must be given plenty of room to swim. Provide ample cover in the form of living rock for these fish to retreat into at night. Powerful filtration and circulation with a high level of oxygenation are a must, as are tight fitting coverslides; these fish are expert jumpers. Adult Creole Wrasses are moderately aggressive, so choose tankmates that are of similar size and temperament. Not to be kept with other wrasse species, as there will be territorial issues.
Feeding
This species prefers small meaty items. Their mouths and teeth are quite small compared to that of other wrasses, so ensure that any foods offered are of an appropriate size. Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, plankton, finely shaved krill/prawns/mussel should all be eagerly accepted. Feed small amounts 2-3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, males are known to form leks during breeding.
