Bird Wrasse

The Bird Wrasse is one of the most distinctive and recognizable wrasses in the marine aquarium hobby, instantly identifiable by its remarkably elongated snout that closely resembles a bird's beak. Terminal-phase males display a brilliant dark green to teal body, while females and initial-phase males exhibit a brown to grayish-white coloration with a lighter underside. This dramatic sexual dimorphism means that male and female specimens look strikingly different, and both color forms are sold in the trade under the same common name.

In the wild, Gomphosus varius is widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes at depths of 2 to 30 meters. Its elongated snout is a specialized adaptation for extracting small crustaceans, worms, and brittle stars from crevices in the reef structure. The Bird Wrasse is an exceptionally fast and agile swimmer, constantly on the move as it patrols its territory in search of food.

In the aquarium, the Bird Wrasse is a moderately hardy species that requires a large tank of at least 125 gallons with ample open swimming space. Its constant activity and impressive swimming speed demand room to roam, and a tight-fitting lid is mandatory to prevent jumping. While it will not harm corals directly, it readily consumes ornamental shrimp, feather dusters, small crabs, and other small invertebrates, making it reef-safe with caution. The Bird Wrasse does best in a fish-only or carefully planned reef system with robust tankmates.