Adorned Wrasse

Adorned Wrasse

Also known as: Ornate Leopard Wrasse, False Leopard Wrasse

The Adorned Wrasse (Ornate Leopard Wrasse) is a stunning but challenging species featuring intricate spotted patterns in vibrant colors. This wrasse requires exceptional dedication and is best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide a mature, established system with abundant natural food sources.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres cosmetus
• Common Names: Adorned Wrasse, Ornate Leopard Wrasse, False Leopard Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-10 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and shy
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Expert; requires advanced care and dedication

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Requires a very well-established aquarium with 3-4 inches of fine sandy substrate for burrowing at night and when stressed. Provide a variety of rock work and crevices to swim through. The wrasse will immediately bury itself upon introduction – this is normal behavior. Must have abundant live rock for microinvertebrate populations.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Not tolerant of ammonia or nitrite spikes
  • Requires pristine water quality
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • High-quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient biological filtration
  • Moderate water flow
  • Well-established refugium recommended to replenish pod populations

Diet & Feeding

Adorned Wrasses are carnivores with very high metabolisms, continuously hunting tiny crustaceans throughout the day. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets (once acclimated)
• Frozen Foods: Vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (essential for initial acclimation), live blackworms
• Natural Diet: Relies heavily on amphipods, copepods, and small crustaceans in established tanks
• Feeding Frequency: Multiple small feedings (3-4 times) per day
• Special Note: Soak all frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements

Notes & Considerations

• Among the most challenging leopard wrasse species; only for expert aquarists with established systems.
• Requires abundant live rock and healthy pod populations similar to Mandarin Dragonets.
• Can be kept singly, in pairs, or in small harems (one male with multiple females).
• All start as females; dominant females will turn male if no male present.
• Peaceful and timid; should not be kept with overly aggressive species or competitors for food.
• Best introduced before larger or more active fish.
• Dives into sand when frightened or for nighttime protection.
• May stay buried for several days after introduction while adjusting to the new environment.
• Secure lid essential; can jump when startled.
• Check mouth area carefully when purchasing as it can be injured during transport.
• Smaller speckled pattern with greater red accent compared to standard Leopard Wrasse.

Why Choose a Quarantined Adorned Wrasse?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this challenging but incredibly beautiful species.