Blue Head Wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum)

Overview: The Blue Head Wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum), also known as the Bluehead Wrasse, is a striking and dynamic marine fish that brings vibrant color and lively activity to any saltwater aquarium. Native to the Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, this species is renowned for its brilliant blue head and colorful body, making it a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts.

Scientific Name: Thalassoma bifasciatum
Common Names: Blue Head Wrasse, Bluehead Wrasse
Family: Labridae
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: With Caution
Diet: Carnivore
Max Size: Up to 7 inches
Lifespan: 5-7 years

Appearance: The Blue Head Wrasse is easily recognizable by its vibrant blue head and the contrasting colors of its body. Juveniles typically display a yellow body with a prominent blue head, while adults exhibit a stunning combination of green, blue, and yellow. This species undergoes a dramatic color change as it matures, making it an ever-changing and visually appealing addition to an aquarium.

Habitat and Behavior: In the wild, Blue Head Wrasses are found in coral reefs and rocky environments, where they dart among the coral and rocks searching for food. They are active swimmers and require plenty of space to explore. In an aquarium, they thrive in a tank with ample live rock for hiding and foraging. A tank size of at least 75 gallons is recommended to accommodate their active lifestyle and potential growth.

Diet: Blue Head Wrasses are carnivorous and have a robust appetite. In captivity, they do well on a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Providing live foods can enhance their coloration and overall health.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
  • dKH: 8-12
• Aquascaping: Provide plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging, along with open swimming spaces.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting to mimic their natural habitat.
• Compatibility: Generally peaceful but may become territorial towards smaller fish or invertebrates. Exercise caution when housing with small shrimp or other small invertebrates, as they might be seen as food.

Breeding: Breeding Blue Head Wrasses in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change sex from female to male. In the wild, males typically dominate harems of females, a behavior that is difficult to replicate in home aquariums.

Summary: The Blue Head Wrasse is a stunning and active addition to a marine aquarium, captivating hobbyists with its vivid colors and energetic presence. While relatively easy to care for, they do require a well-maintained environment and a balanced diet to thrive. With proper care, these vibrant fish can become a focal point of any saltwater setup, delighting both novice and experienced aquarists alike.

Water Parameters for Blue Head Wrasse:

• Temperature: 72-78°F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
• dKH: 8-12