Xmas Red-lined Wrasse (Female)

Also known as Christmas Wrasse, Striped Wrasse

The female Xmas Red-lined Wrasse displays attractive green and cream coloration with subtle striping. This peaceful planktivore is an excellent addition to reef aquariums and can be kept in groups with males.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres biocellatus
• Common Names: Xmas Wrasse, Christmas Wrasse, Ornate Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 5 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 throughout the aquarium. 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

Xmas Red-lined Wrasses are carnivorous hunters. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp (helpful during acclimation); will hunt small pests naturally
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily; active hunters

Notes & Considerations

• Females display green and cream coloration with subtle horizontal striping.
• Completely reef safe with corals; may occasionally hunt very small ornamental shrimp.
• Can be kept with males in larger systems.
• Buries in sand at night; this is normal and healthy behavior.
• Hardy species suitable for aquarists with basic marine experience.
• Very active swimmer that patrols throughout the entire aquarium.
• Generally peaceful toward most tankmates.
• Secure lid recommended; can jump if startled or chased.
• Adapts quickly to aquarium life and accepts prepared foods readily.
• Sandy substrate beneficial for long-term health and natural behavior.
• May eat small crustaceans like small ornamental shrimp.
• Less colorful than males but still attractive.

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

Our quarantined females are already acclimated to aquarium life, accepting all prepared foods, and displaying optimal health. This hardy species benefits from our observation period, ensuring you receive a robust specimen ready to thrive in your reef aquarium.