Ornate Wrasse

The Ornate Wrasse is a beautifully patterned species featuring an intricate leopard-like pattern of blue-edged spots and lines across a reddish-orange body. The elaborate markings create a mosaic of color that makes this one of the most visually complex wrasses in the hobby. Each individual has a slightly unique pattern, adding to their appeal. Males tend to develop more vivid blue-green facial markings as they mature.

Despite its beauty, the Ornate Wrasse is considered a challenging species best suited for experienced aquarists. It is a specialist feeder that relies heavily on tiny benthic invertebrates, particularly copepods and amphipods, found in established reef systems with mature live rock. Without a thriving population of these microfauna, this species can be difficult to keep well-fed and may slowly decline.

The Ornate Wrasse is completely reef-safe and peaceful, making it an ideal addition to mature reef aquariums with abundant live rock and a healthy pod population. It spends its time methodically picking over rock surfaces for tiny invertebrates. A sand substrate is required for sleeping, as this species buries itself at night. A refugium connected to the main display can help sustain the copepod population needed to support this specialized feeder.