Two-tone Wrasse

The Two-tone Wrasse is a striking small wrasse that gets its common name from its bold bicolor pattern: the anterior half of the body is white to light grey while the posterior half is a rich purple to dark violet. This clean, high-contrast coloration makes it one of the more visually distinctive Halichoeres species and an eye-catching addition to reef aquariums.

Like other members of its genus, the Two-tone Wrasse is an active sand-dwelling species that spends much of its day foraging over the substrate and rockwork for small invertebrates. It is an effective pest controller that hunts flatworms, pyramidellid snails, bristleworms, and other nuisance organisms that commonly plague reef aquariums. This practical utility, combined with its attractive appearance and peaceful nature, makes it a popular choice among reef aquarists.

The Two-tone Wrasse is hardy, easy to feed, and peaceful toward virtually all tankmates. It adapts quickly to aquarium life and begins accepting prepared foods almost immediately. Its small adult size makes it suitable for medium-sized reef tanks, and its sand-sleeping behavior means it requires a suitable sand substrate. A tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent jumping, a behavior common to all Halichoeres wrasses.