Chain-lined Wrasse

About

The Chain-lined Wrasse (Halichoeres richmondi) is a mid-sized Pacific wrasse that turns up across a broad arc of the Western Pacific, from Java and the Philippines east through Palau, Truk, Pohnpei, and out to Kwajalein in the Marshalls, with the Ryukyu Islands marking the northern edge of its range. In the wild it favors shallow lagoon and channel reefs where soft corals dominate, typically in less than 12 meters of water, and it tends to move around in small, loosely associated groups rather than as a solitary roamer. Like most Halichoeres wrasses it's a carnivore in the field, picking invertebrates from the reef, and that translates well to aquarium life where it will readily accept meaty prepared and frozen foods. It's generally considered a manageable species for newer saltwater keepers, which is a genuine plus given how many wrasses demand more experience. A tank of reasonable size is needed to give it room to move. These fish are active swimmers and need open territory. That Halichoeres species are jumpers, so a secure lid matters. Overall the Chain-lined Wrasse is a solid, underappreciated option for a fish-only or reef system where the more commonly seen wrasse species have already been done to death.