China Wrasse

China Wrasse (Anampses neoguinaicus), also commonly known in the aquarium trade as the China Pearl Wrasse or Black-Backed Wrasse: 1. Appearance & Coloration Coloration: They feature a striking mix of vibrant white, deep black, and rich blue hues, often accented by shades of green, yellow, and soft brown. Males and females display distinct variations, with males typically showcasing dark upper backs and eye-catching blue-trimmed ocelli (eyespot markings) on their gill plates and dorsal fins. Size: They grow to an adult size of about 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm). 2. Native Origin & Habitat Geography: They are native to the Indo-West Pacific region, including Eastern Asia, the Coral Sea, Australia, and Melanesia. Environment: Found on outer reef slopes and rich coral rubble areas, where they spend their time actively hunting across the reef structure. 3. Tank Requirements Minimum Tank Size: Requires a well-established aquarium of at least 70 to 120 gallons to accommodate their active swimming habits and adult size. Water Parameters: Temperature: 72°F – 79°F (22°C – 26°C) Salinity (Specific Gravity): 1.020 – 1.025 pH: 8.1 – 8.4 Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH Sand Bed (Crucial): Like many Anampses species, they are obligate burrowers. They dive straight into the sand bed to sleep at night or when startled. A fine-to-moderate sandy substrate is mandatory. Tank Cover: Highly prone to jumping when startled; a tight-fitting aquarium lid or screen top is required. 4. Diet & Feeding Natural Diet: Benthic microinvertebrates, small crustaceans, and zooplankton picked from the rockwork. Captive Diet: Can be a delicate feeder when first introduced. They require a varied carnivorous diet consisting of live or fortified frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, and high-quality meaty preparations. 5. Reef Compatibility Status: Reef Safe (With Caution) Behavior: Safe with corals and anemones, but because they are natural hunters, they may predate on small ornamental crustaceans, feather dusters, and tiny snails inhabiting the reef structure. 6. Temperament & Tank Mates Temperament: Generally peaceful to semi-aggressive as they establish territory, but they can be timid during initial acclimation. Compatibility: Best housed with other peaceful community fish like dartfish, gobies, and peaceful fairy wrasses. Avoid aggressive, hyper-competitive fish that might outcompete them for food while they settle in.