Green Coris Wrasse (pest patrol)

Green Coris Wrasse (Halichoeres chloropterus) Overview The Green Coris Wrasse is a stunning and exceptionally vibrant addition to the marine aquarium, celebrated for being one of the few truly solid green fish available in the marine hobby. Sporting a brilliant, electric-green body highlighted by subtle pastel shading and delicate facial markings, this species brings a unique and striking splash of color that is rarely found in other marine fish. Quick Facts & Care Requirements Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons or larger (active swimmers that require ample open swimming room and a deep sand bed). Care Level: Moderate. Temperament: Semi-aggressive (can be peaceful with larger, active tankmates, but will harass very docile fish or small invertebrates). Maximum Size: Up to 10 to 12 inches as fully grown adults. Reef Safe: With caution. While safe around most corals, they are active predators of crustaceans and can pose a threat to ornamental shrimp, crabs, and snails. Feeding & Nutrition Diet Type: Carnivore. Dietary Requirements: They are enthusiastic eaters with high metabolisms. Provide a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and protein-rich frozen foods such as Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, squid, and finely chopped table shrimp. Feeding Frequency: Feed 2 to 3 times per day in small portions. Notable Fish Compatibility Issues Invertebrate Predator: As a natural hunter, the Green Coris Wrasse will actively stalk and consume small crabs, ornamental shrimp, and snails. They are not recommended for reef tanks focused on micro-invertebrates. Aggressive/Docile Dynamics: Avoid housing them with overly timid or slow-moving fish that may get outcompeted for food, as well as smaller nano-species that could be viewed as prey. Sand-Bed Disruption: Because they dive into the sand to sleep and hunt for buried crustaceans, they can occasionally kick up fine substrate or disturb newly placed frag plugs on the sand bed. Basic Care in Captivity Sand Bed Requirement: Mandatory. A deep sand bed (at least 2 to 3 inches) is essential because these wrasses bury themselves completely in the substrate every night to sleep and when startled. Jumping Precaution: Like many wrasses, they are prone to jumping when spooked or newly introduced. A secure, tightly-fitted aquarium lid or screen top is required. Water Parameters: Maintain stable marine conditions—temperature between 72°F to 78°F, salinity of 1.023 to 1.025, and high water quality with low nitrates.