Halichoeres maculipinna (Clown Wrasse) | Colorful & Active Marine Fish

The Halichoeres maculipinna, commonly known as the Clown Wrasse, is a vibrant and energetic marine fish, highly valued for its lively behavior and natural parasite control abilities. Native to the tropical reefs of the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, it is recognized for its unique patterns and color changes throughout its growth stages. This wrasse is an excellent addition to community marine tanks, bringing both utility and movement.

Key Benefits:

✔ Active and intelligent fish – Constantly explores its surroundings.

✔ Natural parasite eater – Helps control certain pest populations.

✔ Bright and evolving colors – Changes hues depending on age and sex.

✔ Easy to feed – Accepts frozen foods and enriched pellets.

✔ Reef-safe with caution – May prey on small invertebrates.

Technical Specifications:

• Scientific Name: Halichoeres maculipinna

• Average Adult Size: 10-12 cm

• Origin: Western Atlantic, Caribbean

• Ideal Temperature: 24-28°C

• Salinity: 1.023 – 1.025

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Lighting: Moderate to strong

• Water Flow: Moderate to strong (prefers well-oxygenated areas)

Care Instructions & Recommendations:

1️⃣ Compatibility: Best suited for a community tank with non-aggressive fish.

2️⃣ Feeding: Opportunistic carnivore, eats mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans.

3️⃣ Behavior: Can be territorial towards other wrasses; avoid keeping with conspecifics.

4️⃣ Acclimation: Drip acclimation recommended for smooth adaptation.

5️⃣ Maintenance: Requires a sandy substrate as it buries itself at night for sleep.