Multicolour Wrasse (Iridis) - Halichoeres iridis

Multicolour Wrasse (Iridis) (Halichoeres iridis)

The Multicolour Wrasse, also known as the Iridis Wrasse, is a striking and highly active marine wrasse admired for its vivid combination of orange, yellow, green and blue colouration. Juveniles and adults can differ noticeably in appearance, with mature fish developing stronger contrast and more intense patterning. Peaceful to moderately assertive and generally suitable for reef aquariums with caution, this species is best kept in a mature system with a deep sandbed, secure lid and plenty of rockwork.

Common Name:
Multicolour Wrasse (Iridis), Iridis Wrasse

Scientific Name (Latin):
Halichoeres iridis

Maximum Size:
Approximately 12 cm

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Multicolour Wrasse occurs in the western Indian Ocean and is associated with coral-rich reefs, rocky reef slopes and sandy areas adjacent to reef structure.

It typically spends the day actively foraging around rockwork and substrate before burying itself in sand at night or when frightened.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

Temperament:
Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive

The Multicolour Wrasse is generally peaceful towards unrelated marine fish but may become territorial towards similar wrasses, particularly as it matures.

It is best housed with peaceful to moderately assertive tankmates and should not be kept with very aggressive species that may prevent it from feeding or settling properly.

Diet:
Carnivore / Micro-predator

The Multicolour Wrasse naturally feeds on small crustaceans, worms and other reef-associated invertebrates.

In the aquarium, offer a varied diet including frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped prawn, krill and quality marine pellets.

Several smaller meals throughout the day are beneficial due to its active feeding behaviour.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 200 litres

A mature aquarium with plenty of swimming room, secure rockwork and a suitable sandbed is recommended.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Multicolour Wrasse is an energetic daytime swimmer that spends much of its time exploring rockwork and searching the substrate for small prey.

It requires a soft, fine sandbed deep enough to bury itself completely, particularly at night and when startled.

A tightly fitted aquarium lid is essential, as Halichoeres wrasses are accomplished jumpers.

Reef Safe:
With Caution

The Multicolour Wrasse is generally safe with healthy corals and does not normally feed on coral tissue.

However, small ornamental crustaceans, worms and other tiny mobile invertebrates may be hunted, particularly as the fish matures.

For this reason, it is best considered reef safe with caution rather than completely reef safe.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Provide a mature aquarium with a fine sandbed, plenty of established rockwork and open swimming space.

A secure lid is essential because this species may jump when startled or during acclimation.

The sandbed should remain free from sharp or coarse material that could damage the fish while it buries.

Newly introduced specimens may remain hidden beneath the sand for extended periods while adjusting to their surroundings.

Avoid keeping it with very aggressive wrasses or other highly territorial fish unless the aquarium provides sufficient space.

Regular varied feeding and stable water quality will help maintain strong colouration and good body condition.

Suitable for:
Intermediate

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on season, collection area and supplier.

All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.