Blackeye Thicklip Wrasse

The Blackeye Thicklip Wrasse is one of the largest wrasse species encountered in the aquarium hobby, capable of reaching an enormous 35 inches in the wild. This massive fish features characteristically thick, fleshy lips and a distinctive coloration pattern where the front half of the body is lighter than the posterior, giving it the common name Half-and-Half Wrasse. A dark eye marking is a consistent identifying feature.

Due to its enormous adult size, the Blackeye Thicklip is primarily suitable for public aquariums or exceptionally large private systems of 400 gallons or more. This is an aggressive species that dominates its environment and will consume any invertebrate it can overpower. Juveniles are occasionally offered in the trade and may be attractively colored, but buyers must be prepared for the tremendous growth potential.

Despite the impracticality of housing adult specimens, the Blackeye Thicklip is a hardy and interesting species. It is a bold feeder with a powerful set of pharyngeal teeth capable of crushing hard-shelled prey. Like other Hemigymnus species, it requires a deep sand bed for sleeping and a very secure enclosure.