BeginnerSemi-AggressiveNot Reef Safe

Klunzinger Wrasse

Thalassoma rueppellii

Family: Labridae · Wrasses

Also known as: Klunzinger's Wrasse, Ruppell's Wrasse, Red Sea Thalassoma

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Max Size

Min Tank

75 gal

Lifespan

5-8 years

Origin

Red Sea, Gulf of Aden

Diet

Carnivore

Swims

Middle

About

The Klunzinger Wrasse is a vibrantly colored Red Sea endemic species that is among the most visually striking Thalassoma wrasses. Males display an incredible combination of electric blue, green, yellow, and purple coloration that shifts and changes depending on lighting conditions. Females are less vivid but still attractively colored with subtle patterns of green and yellow.

As a Red Sea endemic, the Klunzinger Wrasse commands a premium price and is less commonly available than more widespread Thalassoma species. However, it is just as hardy and easy to keep as its more common relatives. This species adapts quickly to aquarium life and readily accepts a wide range of prepared and frozen foods.

Like other Thalassoma wrasses, the Klunzinger Wrasse is semi-aggressive and an active, fast swimmer that needs plenty of open water for swimming. It is not considered reef safe due to its tendency to prey on small invertebrates. A very secure lid is essential, as this species is one of the most notorious jumpers in the wrasse family. This makes an impressive addition to fish-only Red Sea biotope aquariums.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivore

The Klunzinger Wrasse feeds on small invertebrates, crustaceans, and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, it eagerly accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, marine pellets, and flake food. This species is an excellent, aggressive feeder with no feeding challenges. Feed two to three times daily.

Compatibility

fish-onlysemi-aggressivehardybeginner-friendlyactive-swimmer

The Klunzinger Wrasse is semi-aggressive and can be boisterous toward smaller, timid species. Best housed with other active, robust fish. Will prey on ornamental shrimp and small invertebrates. Not suitable for reef aquariums with invertebrate populations. Works well in active fish-only or Red Sea biotope setups.

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Breeding

Not bred in captivity

Klunzinger Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites. Males are significantly more colorful than females. Spawning occurs in the water column. Captive breeding has not been achieved. All specimens are wild-caught from Red Sea waters.