ExpertPeacefulReef Safe

Choat Leopard Wrasse

Macropharyngodon choati

Family: Labridae · Wrasses

Also known as: Choat's Wrasse, Choati Leopard Wrasse, Red Leopard Wrasse

Max Size

5.5"

Min Tank

55 gal

Lifespan

5-8 years

Origin

Western Pacific, Australia

Diet

Carnivore

Swims

Bottom

About

The Choat Leopard Wrasse is one of the most visually stunning members of the Macropharyngodon genus, featuring a beautiful pattern of red, pink, and white markings across its body. Males display more intense red coloration with intricate maze-like patterns, while females show a more subdued but still attractive spotted appearance. This species is named after marine biologist Dr. J. Howard Choat.

Like all leopard wrasses, the Choat Leopard Wrasse is classified as expert-only due to its extremely challenging feeding requirements. This species is a specialized micropredator that feeds on tiny benthic organisms throughout the day in the wild. Many specimens fail to transition to prepared foods in captivity, making a mature aquarium with an established population of copepods and amphipods absolutely essential.

The Choat Leopard Wrasse is a sand sleeper that requires a fine sand bed for its nightly burial behavior. A tight-fitting lid is mandatory as this species is prone to jumping. When successfully established, this peaceful and reef-safe wrasse is one of the most rewarding species in the hobby, but the path to success requires patience, expertise, and proper preparation.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivore

The Choat Leopard Wrasse is a specialized micropredator feeding on tiny benthic invertebrates and copepods. Transitioning to prepared foods is extremely challenging. A well-established aquarium with thriving copepod and amphipod populations is mandatory. Some individuals may eventually accept frozen cyclops, baby brine shrimp, and finely chopped mysis shrimp. A connected refugium is highly recommended to maintain live food populations.

Compatibility

reef-safepeacefulexpert-onlysand-sleeperdelicate-feeder

The Choat Leopard Wrasse is completely peaceful and reef safe. It will not harm corals, clams, or larger invertebrates. Must not be housed with aggressive feeders that will outcompete it for food. Avoid keeping with other leopard wrasses unless the system is very large with ample food resources. Best kept in a peaceful reef community.

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Breeding

Not bred in captivity

Choat Leopard Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites. The dominant female in a group transitions to male. Spawning involves pelagic egg release. Captive breeding has not been achieved. All specimens are wild-caught, primarily from Australian waters.