Saltwater Wrasse Species & Care

Choose a wrasse for the aquarium you actually keep

Wrasses range from small, peaceful reef fish to large, assertive predators. Their adult size, feeding needs, sleeping behavior, and compatibility with invertebrates differ widely, so a family name alone is not enough to judge suitability. Compare the profiles on this page before selecting a species for a reef, fish-only, or mixed marine aquarium.

Account for sand, lids, and feeding behavior

Many wrasses bury in sand to sleep or when frightened, while others use mucus cocoons or shelter in rockwork. Confirm the species' substrate needs before purchase. A secure, gap-free lid is important because wrasses are capable jumpers, especially during introduction or conflict. Active species may also need frequent, varied feeding and enough rockwork to forage.

Check reef safety at the species level

Some wrasses are valued for hunting small pests and are broadly compatible with corals. Others may eat shrimp, snails, crabs, worms, or other mobile invertebrates. “Reef safe” should therefore be checked against the exact animals in your aquarium. Read the reef-safe wrasse care guide for family-level planning.

Use the linked profiles below for tank size, temperament, diet, and compatibility details. To compare wrasses with every other group, return to the saltwater fish species guide.