{"product_id":"paddlefin-wrasse","title":"Paddlefin Wrasse","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Paddlefin Wrasse (\u003cem\u003eThalassoma lucasanum\u003c\/em\u003e) is recognized by a brightly colored male pattern with a contrasting midbody band and paddle-like pectoral fins. Its movements and daily feeding behavior are as characteristic as its coloration: it searches its surroundings for food while remaining aware of nearby shelter. Coloration varies with maturity, social status, and lighting, and an individual at rest may look less intense than a displaying adult.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative to Tropical eastern Pacific, this wrasse is associated with reef structure and adjacent open areas where suitable animal prey and shelter occur. Paddlefin and Mexican Rock are trade names for this listed species; it is distinct from the temperate Californian Rock Wrasse. These natural habits are useful guides when planning the aquarium, especially the arrangement of shelter, feeding locations, and suitable companions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlan adult housing for a fish reaching approximately \u003cstrong\u003e5.9 inches (15 cm)\u003c\/strong\u003e in a system of at least \u003cstrong\u003e90 gallons\u003c\/strong\u003e. An established marine aquarium with suitable space and compatible residents supports its natural activity. Swimming footprint, food access, and adult behavior matter alongside water volume.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eQuick Care Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90 Gallons\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 5.9 inches (15 cm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-Aggressive\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carnivore\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReef Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRegion:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tropical eastern Pacific\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eThalassoma lucasanum\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Requirements\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eUse a fully cycled, established marine aquarium of at least 90 gallons for long-term adult housing. Provide room to explore between feeding and resting areas without repeatedly crossing another fish's defended territory. A tall, narrow aquarium is not equivalent to a broad display simply because its volume is similar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide a sand-and-rock layout suited to benthic foraging, with shelters that fit the adult comfortably. Keep the substrate clean and avoid forcing the fish to repeatedly disturb unsecured coral fragments or decorations while searching for food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArrange stable caves and protected resting spaces. Leave several approaches to each main structure so a dominant fish cannot easily trap the wrasse inside a single-entry shelter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuild a stable aquascape with enough separation between structures to create visual breaks. Keep gaps wide enough that the adult cannot become wedged while escaping a tankmate. Leave room to clean waste from behind and below the main structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA tightly fitted lid is essential.\u003c\/strong\u003e Wrasses can jump during feeding, social displays, introductions, or sudden changes in lighting. Cover cable openings, overflow gaps, and small spaces around plumbing; a lid that fits the main opening but leaves escape gaps is incomplete protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide good circulation, surface agitation, and dependable oxygenation, with sheltered areas where the fish can rest away from direct pump output. Efficient biological filtration and routine mechanical waste removal are important with frequent feeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain mature rock surfaces and good water quality before adding the fish. Established shelter and a predictable maintenance routine help the fish settle without repeated disruption of its environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe minimum volume applies to an appropriately stocked display, not an unlimited collection of wrasses. Additional similarly shaped or highly active fish require more space than a single-specimen recommendation. Keep an isolation option available if the social arrangement changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDiet and Feeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Paddlefin Wrasse is a carnivorous hunter of small marine animal prey. A captive diet should match the size and texture of foods it can actually swallow, rather than relying on a single convenient frozen item.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA varied feeding rotation is preferable to one repeated ingredient. Pellets can be useful when accepted, while suitable frozen and marine seafood items broaden texture and nutritional variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffer a balanced selection that includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrozen mysis shrimp\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnriched brine shrimp\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppropriately sized marine crustaceans\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinely chopped clam, mussel, and other marine seafood\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eBalanced frozen marine carnivore blends\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eSuitable marine pellets when accepted\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eProvide two to three small meals daily, adjusting amount and frequency to activity, age, and actual consumption. Growing juveniles and thin new arrivals may need extra small opportunities rather than one oversized meal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDistribute food at more than one location, including areas near shelter. This helps reduce crowding and makes it easier to see whether the wrasse is receiving its share.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatch for swallowing rather than food being mouthed and discarded. A wrasse that approaches food eagerly but rejects every item may still be underfed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid relying exclusively on unenriched brine shrimp or a single frozen food. Marine-based foods are appropriate; freshwater feeder fish and terrestrial meat are unnecessary. Remove uneaten portions before they collect inside caves or beneath rockwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the abdomen and overall body condition regularly. Persistent pinching, reduced activity, repeated food rejection, or a fish disappearing whenever feeding begins calls for closer assessment of water quality, competition, and the feeding arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePest-hunting behavior is useful to observe, but it does not make the fish a guaranteed solution for every nuisance organism. Prepared-food support remains necessary even in a mature aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTemperament and Tankmates\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Paddlefin Wrasse is best described as \u003cstrong\u003esemi-aggressive\u003c\/strong\u003e. Natural hunting behavior and territorial interactions should guide tankmate selection rather than an assumption that all wrasses behave alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA single individual is the most predictable arrangement in a typical home display. Related wrasses and similar-looking competitors require more space and a deliberate introduction plan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose appropriately sized companions that use different feeding and resting areas, while avoiding fish small enough to be taken as prey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall fishes, ornamental shrimp, and other easily swallowed animals may be viewed as prey. Increasing tank volume cannot remove a predator's natural feeding behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse a covered acclimation box when it is suitable for evaluating reactions, with good water exchange and shelter. Observe both the newcomer and established residents. Behavior through a barrier is useful information, but it does not guarantee permanent compatibility after release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatch interactions around feeding areas and nighttime shelters. Repeated chasing, exclusion from food, damaged fins, or a fish trapped in one corner indicates that changes are needed. Do not wait for severe injury before separating incompatible residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTemperament can change with maturity or a new social arrangement. Reassess compatibility after growth, new additions, or significant changes to the aquascape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA complex layout and additional space can reduce encounters, but they do not make an unsuitable combination dependable. Keep a practical removal or isolation plan available before introducing another closely related or similarly patterned fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eReef Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Paddlefin Wrasse is \u003cstrong\u003enot considered reef safe\u003c\/strong\u003e. A mature fish-only display provides the most predictable environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential prey includes small shrimp, worms, tiny crustaceans, and other vulnerable invertebrates. The risk reflects its natural hunting ecology rather than simply whether it has been fed recently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fish that initially ignores an animal may behave differently after growth or a molt. Adult mouth size, individual feeding habits, and the vulnerability of the invertebrate are all relevant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegular varied feeding supports health but cannot guarantee that ornamental animals will be ignored. Do not use a full stomach as the sole basis for combining a hunting wrasse with valuable shrimp or cleanup-crew animals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProtect loose coral fragments and maintain secure placement, especially where the fish searches the substrate or moves quickly between rock structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA deliberately selected reef placement requires acceptance of these risks and a practical removal plan. Coral compatibility alone does not establish compatibility with every animal sold as reef livestock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eObserve the actual individual rather than relying on a general reputation for pest control or utility. Beneficial small animals may be consumed along with nuisance prey.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 75–80°F\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Gravity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.024–1.026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8.1–8.4\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlkalinity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8–12 dKH\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaintain undetectable ammonia and nitrite with stable temperature, salinity, and good oxygenation. Frequent feeding increases nutrient input, so filtration and maintenance should match actual consumption and waste rather than a lightly stocked aquarium's previous routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid sudden changes in temperature, salinity, or pH. Use calibrated instruments, consistent top-off, and a predictable maintenance schedule. Steady conditions within an appropriate range are preferable to repeated adjustments made solely to chase an exact number.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean trapped food and detritus from sheltered areas without repeatedly dismantling the fish's only resting site. Maintain surface movement and restore normal circulation promptly after feeding adjustments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuarantine in a fully supported system that reflects this fish's shelter and feeding needs. Provide suitable inert shelters and a covered aquarium. A bare, unstable holding tank can create stress or ammonia problems; medications and treatment decisions should be species-appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCommon Considerations\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Housing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Plan for approximately 5.9 inches (15 cm) and at least 90 gallons, with a suitable adult footprint and additional space for competing residents.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSecure Cover:\u003c\/strong\u003e Close every practical escape route around the lid, plumbing, and overflow. Jumping can occur after long periods of otherwise settled behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProtected Shelter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide stable, appropriately sized rock crevices and shaded retreats; suitable shelter cannot be replaced by open water alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding and Body Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Use a varied marine menu, observe swallowing, and make sure dominant residents do not prevent regular food intake.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies and Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Paddlefin and Mexican Rock are trade names for this listed species; it is distinct from the temperate Californian Rock Wrasse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"TSA Fish","offers":[{"title":"S (2.1-2.5\")","offer_id":50785184284970,"sku":"WRAxPadS","price":104.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"M (3.6-4.5\")","offer_id":50785184317738,"sku":"WRAxPadM","price":149.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"L (5.6-6.5\")","offer_id":50785184350506,"sku":"WRAxPadL","price":194.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"XL (6.6-7.5\")","offer_id":50971576729898,"sku":"WRAxPadX","price":224.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"SM (2.6-3.5\")","offer_id":52787725336874,"sku":"WRAxPadSM","price":116.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"ML (4.6-5.5\")","offer_id":52787725369642,"sku":"WRAxPadML","price":176.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0783\/0873\/7322\/files\/Paddlefin-Wrasse.png?v=1790618542","url":"https:\/\/topshelfaquatics.com\/products\/paddlefin-wrasse","provider":"Top Shelf Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}