Your Guide to Buying and Adding a Banana Wrasse to Your Tank

Banana Wrasses, with their elongated bodies and vibrant yellow hues, are sure to draw attention in any marine tank. These active swimmers add a dash of color and dynamism to the aquarium. Let's discover how best to care for and enjoy your new Banana Wrasse.

Choosing the Right Banana Wrasse

When opting for a Banana Wrasse:

• Select individuals that are active and display vivid colours.
• Ensure there are no visible injuries or signs of disease such as white spots or cloudy eyes.

Physical Appearance

Features of the Banana Wrasse:

• They sport a bright yellow, elongated body.
• Their appearance can range from pale to deep yellow, depending on age and environment.
• Adult Banana Wrasses can reach up to 12 inches in length.

Compatibility with Other Fish

Compatibility insights:

• Generally, Banana Wrasses are peaceful but can become territorial in confined spaces.
• They may chase smaller shrimp and invertebrates, so select tankmates cautiously.

Reef Safe

For those with a reef tank:

• Banana Wrasses are not entirely reef safe. They may snack on small invertebrates and crustaceans.
• Keep a close watch if introducing them to a reef tank and consider their natural tendencies.

Suitable Tank Size

Ideal housing:

• Due to their active swimming nature and potential size, a minimum tank size of 350 litres is recommended.
• They appreciate open swimming spaces and hiding spots among rocks.

Water Conditions

Optimal parameters:

• Temperature: 22-26°C
• pH levels: 8.1-8.4.
• Specific gravity: 1.020-1.025.

Preparing Your Tank

Setting up:

• Provide plenty of rock formations for them to retreat and hide.
• A sandy substrate is preferable, as they often bury themselves in the sand when threatened or sleeping.

Monitoring Behaviour

Key behaviours:

• Banana Wrasses are known to jump, so a well-secured lid is essential.
• They typically get along with fish of similar size but monitor interactions to ensure harmony.

Feeding Schedule

Dietary needs:

• They are carnivorous and enjoy a diet of meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and quality marine flakes or pellets.
• Feed once or twice daily, ensuring they get a balanced diet.

Incorporating a Banana Wrasse into your marine aquarium adds a delightful splash of colour and activity. With careful consideration of their natural habits and proper care, they can become a thriving and engaging addition to your underwater community.