Care
In the wild, the beautiful Jade Wrasse is known from shallow, protected coral reefs and neighbouring silty rubble-strewn substrates, up to a depth of around 10m (33ft), where it feeds mainly on hard-shelled prey such as crustaceans, molluscs, and urchins. This is a species that should be added to the reef tank with a bit of caution; although it should not trouble corals, it will feed on a variety of invertebrates (see Reef Aquarium Compatibility section below). However, it can play a very useful role in helping to keep nuisance flatworms and pyramidellid snails (parasites of tridacnid clams) under control. The tank should be mature and furnished with plenty of living rock to provide feeding opportunities, shady hiding places and visual barriers. There should be a deep sand bed of around 3" (7.5cm) or so, in order that the wrasse may bury itself at night or if startled. Keep either a single specimen, or, if the tank is large enough, a good sized group of 5 or 6 individuals (ideally introduced simultaneously). Young Jade Wrasses rarely cause problems in a community type set-up, but large adults have been known to pick on small passive fish, such as flasher wrasses, fairy wrasses, and firefish, so these combinations are best avoided. Powerful filtration and circulation with a high level of oxygenation are a must, as are tight fitting coverslides; these fish are expert jumpers. This fish is not a common import, but may be seen from time to time under various other common names including Green Wrasse, Pastel Green Wrasse, or Green Coris.
Feeding
Carnivorous. Will readily accept most meaty frozen foods such as Mysis shrimp, krill, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped prawns/cockle/mussel etc. Feed small amounts 2 or 3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been successfully raised in captivity, although a handful of aquarists claim to have had theirs spawn and have seen eggs.
