Xmas Red-lined Wrasse (Male)

Also known as Christmas Wrasse, Striped Wrasse

The male Xmas Red-lined Wrasse is a stunning species displaying vibrant green body with distinctive red horizontal stripes creating a festive appearance. This active and hardy sand-dwelling wrasse brings spectacular color and natural pest control to reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres biocellatus
• Common Names: Xmas Wrasse, Christmas Wrasse, Ornate Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe (with caution regarding small ornamental shrimp)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide live rock with caves and a sandy substrate (1-2 inches minimum) for burying at night. These active wrasses patrol all areas of the aquarium hunting for food. Secure lid recommended as they can jump when startled.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality required
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Protein skimmer
  • Adequate filtration
  • Moderate water circulation

Diet & Feeding

Male Xmas Red-lined Wrasses are carnivorous hunters with varied dietary needs:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Will naturally hunt flatworms, small bristleworms, and other pests
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Good natural pest control; actively hunts unwanted invertebrates

Notes & Considerations

• Males display vibrant green body with bold red horizontal stripes creating festive “Christmas” appearance.
• Completely reef safe with corals; may occasionally hunt small ornamental shrimp.
• Only one male per tank recommended.
• Buries in sand at night; this is normal and healthy behavior.
• Hardy species excellent for aquarists with basic marine experience.
• Very active swimmer that patrols throughout the entire aquarium.
• Generally peaceful but may chase very small, timid fish.
• Secure lid recommended; can jump if startled or chased.
• Adapts quickly to aquarium life and accepts prepared foods readily.
• Sandy substrate required for long-term health and natural behavior.
• May eat small crustaceans like sexy shrimp or mini carpet anemone shrimp.
• Shows best coloration under quality reef lighting.

Why Choose a Quarantined Xmas Red-lined Wrasse (Male)?

Our quarantined males are already acclimated to aquarium life, accepting all prepared foods, and displaying vibrant coloration. This hardy species benefits from our observation period, ensuring you receive a healthy, robust specimen ready to provide both festive beauty and natural pest control in your reef aquarium.