Bluehead Wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum)
The Bluehead Wrasse is a brilliantly colored and highly active marine fish admired for its striking electric blue head, vibrant green body, and bold yellow accents. Juveniles display a completely different coloration than adults, making this species especially fascinating as it matures. Constantly on the move and full of personality, the Bluehead Wrasse is an eye-catching addition to large saltwater aquariums and fish-only marine displays.
Native to the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky shorelines of the Caribbean and western Atlantic, the Bluehead Wrasse spends its day swimming through the reef in search of small crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and other invertebrates. In the home aquarium, it thrives in mature systems with plenty of live rock, open swimming space, and excellent water quality. A secure lid is recommended, as this energetic species is capable of jumping when startled.
Bluehead Wrasses are carnivores and eagerly accept a varied diet of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood, krill, marine pellets, and other high-quality frozen and prepared foods. Multiple small feedings each day help support their active metabolism and maintain their vibrant coloration.
While generally hardy, Bluehead Wrasses are active, semi-aggressive fish that are best housed with similarly robust tank mates such as tangs, larger clownfish, angelfish, hawkfish, and other larger wrasses. They may prey on small ornamental shrimp, snails, feather dusters, and other delicate invertebrates, making them better suited for fish-only aquariums or carefully selected reef systems.
Scientific Name: Thalassoma bifasciatum
Common Name: Bluehead Wrasse
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Diet: Carnivore
Adult Size: Up to 6 Inches
Minimum Tank Size: 90 Gallons
Origin: Caribbean & Western Atlantic
Reef Safe: With Caution
If you're looking for a colorful, active, and hardy marine fish, the Bluehead Wrasse is an excellent choice. Its brilliant coloration, energetic swimming behavior, and engaging personality make it a spectacular addition to larger saltwater aquariums.
