The Pastel Slender Wrasse (Hologymnosus doliatus), also known Candycane or Ringed Wrasse, can be found among seaward reefs in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Juveniles have a yellow or white body with horizontal red lines running the entire length or their bodies. Adult females have a beige or tan body with darker stripes and white fins, while the males have a green or blue body with a white stripe near the gills. They reach a maximum size of 20 inches; as such, they require a tank with at least 180 gallons. It is not recommended to be kept in a reef aquarium, and do best in a fish-only system with fish of similar size and temperament. Their diet consists of crustaceans, such as mysis, krill and crab, small fish, and occasional mollusks. They prefer deep sand beds of fine consistency, which they will dig among in search of mollusks or invertebrates. 

About the Pastel Slender Wrasse: Care Guide

The Pastel Slender Wrasse (Hologymnosus doliatus) is a fascinating marine fish species that can make a delightful addition to saltwater aquariums.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Habitat and Natural Behavior

In the wild, the Pastel Slender Wrasse inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas throughout the Indo-Pacific region, this species thrives amidst the vibrant tapestry of coral reefs and rocky outcrops.

Reef Compatibility

The Pastel Slender Wrasse is generally not considered reef-safe. Its compatibility with reef ecosystems warrants consideration. While they aren't inherently predatory, their diet includes small invertebrates like crustaceans and worms, which could pose a risk to certain reef inhabitants.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Size and Lifespan

Juvenile Pastel Slender Wrasses typically measure 2-3 inches, with adults reaching up to 20 inches.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Diet in Captivity

In an aquarium setting, the Pastel Slender Wrasse's diet should consist primarily of high-quality marine-based flakes or pellets. In the wild, they feast on small crustaceans and invertebrates. In captivity, offering a diverse diet that includes high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, and occasional offerings of live or frozen marine worms can replicate their natural diet.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Aquaculture and Availability

While wild-caught specimens of the Pastel Slender Wrasse are occasionally available in the aquarium trade, efforts are being made to aquaculture these fish.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Compatibility with Tank Mates

The Pastel Slender Wrasse is generally peaceful towards other fish and can coexist with various other large tank mates. Be cautious keeping adult specimens with smaller fish as they may view them as possible prey items. Compatible tank mates often include the Foxface Rabbitfish (Siganus vulpinus), the Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon), the Bluejaw Triggerfish (Xanthichthys auromarginatus), the Niger Triggerfish (Odonus niger), and the Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator).

Pastel Slender Wrasse Sexual Dimorphism and Coloration Changes

Male and female Pastel Slender Wrasses exhibit similar coloration and markings, with males having brighter stripes and a more blue color and females showing more of a tan color with muted stripes.

Pastel Slender Wrasse Temperament

The Pastel Slender Wrasse is generally peaceful and can be kept in large community aquariums with other non-aggressive species. Be cautious keeping them with other large wrasses as they may become territorial.

Tank Requirements for Pastel Slender Wrasse

To ensure the health and well-being of the Pastel Slender Wrasse, a minimum aquarium size of 180-200 gallons is recommended as they do grow to a large size.

Water Conditions for Pastel Slender Wrasse

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health and well-being of Pastel Slender Wrasses. Be sure to keep water parameters in check with regular maintenance and water changes.

Why Choose the Pastel Slender Wrasse from Saltwaterfish.com

When purchasing the Pastel Slender Wrasse from Saltwaterfish.com, you can trust that you are receiving healthy, responsibly sourced specimens backed by their industry-leading guarantee.

In conclusion, the Pastel Slender Wrasse is a captivating and peaceful marine fish species that can thrive in a well-maintained saltwater aquarium.