Description
Black Leopard Wrasse – Melanesia (Macropharyngodon negrosensis)
The Black Leopard Wrasse is a beautifully patterned and fascinating marine wrasse, recognised for its dark body covered in intricate pale spots and markings. Native to the Indo-Pacific, including Melanesian waters, this unusual species is particularly attractive as it moves gracefully through established reef aquariums, constantly searching rockwork and substrate for tiny crustaceans and other natural foods.
Compatibility:
Peaceful. Generally compatible with clownfish, gobies, blennies, tangs, dwarf angelfish and other peaceful marine species. Avoid aggressive or highly territorial tankmates, particularly larger wrasses that may intimidate or outcompete it for food.
Reef Compatibility:
Reef-safe. Safe with corals and most ornamental invertebrates, although it naturally feeds on tiny crustaceans, copepods and other microfauna found throughout mature reef systems.
Diet:
Carnivore – naturally feeds on small benthic invertebrates, copepods and other tiny crustaceans. Offer enriched brine shrimp, small mysis shrimp, copepods and finely chopped marine foods. Some individuals can be reluctant to accept prepared foods, making an established aquarium with abundant natural microfauna particularly important. Feed 2–3 smaller meals daily once acclimated.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 24–27°C
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Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Minimum Tank Size: 250L
Care Level:
Advanced – Leopard Wrasses can be particularly sensitive during transportation and acclimation. They require mature, stable aquariums, abundant natural food sources, peaceful tankmates and a suitable sand bed.
Top Tip:
Provide a fine, soft sand bed at least 5cm deep, as Black Leopard Wrasses naturally bury themselves when sleeping or frightened. Newly introduced specimens may remain hidden beneath the sand for several days while settling in. Avoid disturbing them during this period, and ensure the aquarium has a secure lid to prevent jumping.
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