Chisel-tooth Wrasse
Pseudodax moluccanus
Also known as: Chiseltooth wrasse
A wrasse with parrotfish teeth that moonlights as a reef cleaner station
About
The chisel-tooth wrasse (Pseudodax moluccanus) is one of those fish that sits right at the intersection of two families and never quite fits the mold of either. Its fused, chisel-like front teeth place it anatomically close to the parrotfishes, yet its behavior in the water column reads more like the anampses wrasses. An unusual combination that makes it genuinely interesting to anyone who pays close attention to fish. Found across a huge swath of the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea down to South Africa and out to the remote islands of Polynesia, it favors clear-water seaward reefs and channel edges. Adults are solitary and tend to hang around cave entrances and overhangs, while juveniles are often tucked deeper inside reef structures, sometimes well below 18 meters. What really sets the juveniles apart is their habit of cleaning parasites off other fish. A behavior more commonly associated with dedicated cleaner wrasses. As adults, the diet shifts to algae and small invertebrates. This species reaches a respectable size and needs a roomy, well-established reef system with plenty of live rock structure. It is best suited to keepers who have some wrasse experience under their belt.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Chisel-tooth Wrasse get?
- The Chisel-tooth Wrasse reaches about 7–12" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Chisel-tooth Wrasse need?
- A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for the Chisel-tooth Wrasse.
- What water parameters does the Chisel-tooth Wrasse need?
- The Chisel-tooth Wrasse does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Chisel-tooth Wrasse aggressive?
- The Chisel-tooth Wrasse is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.
- What does the Chisel-tooth Wrasse eat?
- The Chisel-tooth Wrasse is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Chisel-tooth Wrasse live?
- With good care, the Chisel-tooth Wrasse typically lives 2-3 years.
- Is the Chisel-tooth Wrasse reef safe?
- The Chisel-tooth Wrasse is not considered reliably reef safe and may harm corals or invertebrates.