Vivienne's Wrasse

Vivien's wrasse (Macropharyngodon vivienae) is a vibrant and relatively rare marine fish from the Western Indian Ocean, popular among experienced aquarium hobbyists. It is also known as the Vivien's Leopard Wrasse or Madagascar Wrasse. 

Key Characteristics

Scientific Name: Macropharyngodon vivienae
Origin: Western Indian Ocean, including the coasts of South Africa (Natal to Durban) and Madagascar

Size: Maximum length of approximately 11 cm (4.5 inches)

Habitat: Found in sheltered coral reefs, lagoons, and sandy or rocky areas at depths generally greater than 20 meters

Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates like foraminiferans and amphipods. In an aquarium, they require a diet of enriched frozen mysis and brine shrimp, along with high-quality flake and pellet food

Reef Safe: Generally considered reef safe, though it may disturb small, bottom-oriented sessile corals when burying itself in the sand

Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be semi-aggressive with other fish of the same species or genus

Care Level: Intermediate to Expert, as they can be sensitive to shipping stress and require a specific environment to thrive 

Appearance and Biology

The wrasse is known for its striking coloration, which varies between sexes and maturity stages. 

Males typically have pink backs with bright spots, a yellow cream throat, and a blue line across the face.

Females and juveniles are often more subdued in color, with less distinct markings and ocelli (eye spots) on their dorsal and anal fins. 

Like other wrasses in its genus, it is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning all juveniles are immature females, and the largest female in a social group can change sex to become the dominant male if needed. 

Aquarium Care

For hobbyists, a well-established aquarium of at least 250 Litres (90 gallons) with plenty of live rock and a deep sand bed is recommended. The sand bed is crucial as they bury themselves in it for protection and to sleep.