Wrasses are active, inquisitive fish that bring constant movement and personality to a marine tank, with temperaments ranging from peaceful to mildly boisterous depending on the species. Many of the popular “reef-safe” wrasses (such as fairy and flasher wrasses) leave corals alone and are ideal for pest control, picking off unwanted critters in the rockwork, while some larger or predatory species may target shrimp, crabs and very small fish. Most do best in covered aquariums of at least 200 litres, as they are strong jumpers and need open swimming space alongside plenty of rockwork to forage around. Many wrasses bury themselves in the sand at night, so a soft sandbed is essential for their natural behaviour and long-term wellbeing.
