IntermediatePeacefulReef Safe

Slingjaw Wrasse

Epibulus insidiator

Family: Labridae · Wrasses

Also known as: Sling-Jaw Wrasse, Slingjaw, Telescopefish

Max Size

14"

Min Tank

125 gal

Lifespan

8-12 years

Origin

Indo-Pacific, Red Sea

Diet

Carnivore

Swims

Middle

About

The Slingjaw Wrasse possesses one of the most remarkable feeding mechanisms in the entire fish kingdom. Its jaws can extend forward to an extraordinary degree, projecting outward to nearly half the length of its body to snatch prey from crevices in the reef. This jaw extension mechanism is so unique that it has made this species a subject of fascination for both marine biologists and aquarists alike.

Slingjaw Wrasses exhibit dramatic sexual dimorphism and color variation. They come in two primary color morphs: a yellow morph and a brown morph, with males displaying more vivid coloration than females. Yellow-phase individuals are particularly striking and highly sought after in the aquarium trade. Regardless of color morph, all Slingjaw Wrasses share the same incredible protrusible jaw structure.

In captivity, the Slingjaw Wrasse is a peaceful species that adapts reasonably well to aquarium life once it begins feeding. The initial feeding response can be slow, requiring patience and a variety of live and frozen foods to trigger acceptance. Once acclimated, they become reliable feeders. Their fascinating feeding behavior makes them captivating display animals. They are reef-safe and do not harm corals, though very small ornamental shrimp may be at risk from their extensible jaws.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivore

Slingjaw Wrasses are carnivores that use their extraordinary protrusible jaws to snatch small fish and crustaceans from reef crevices. In captivity, offer frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, small pieces of krill, and finely chopped seafood. Live foods such as ghost shrimp may be needed initially to trigger feeding. Once acclimated, most will accept high-quality frozen and pellet foods. Feed two to three times daily.

Compatibility

reef-safepeacefulcommunity-safeunique-behavior

The Slingjaw Wrasse is peaceful and compatible with most community reef fish. It coexists well with tangs, angelfish, clownfish, and other peaceful to semi-aggressive species. While generally reef-safe with corals and larger invertebrates, very small ornamental shrimp may be consumed by the extensible jaws. Best kept as a single specimen unless the tank is very large.

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Breeding

Not bred in captivity

Slingjaw Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites. Males are typically larger and more colorful than females. Spawning occurs in the water column with pelagic eggs. Captive breeding has not been achieved for this species. All specimens in the trade are wild-caught.