Your Guide to Buying and Adding a Pastel Lime Wrasse to Your Tank

Pastel Lime Wrasses are lesser-known in the aquarium hobby but bring an unparalleled splash of delicate colours to the marine tank. As with any fish, understanding their requirements and habits is crucial for a harmonious tank environment.

Choosing the Right Pastel Lime Wrasse

When selecting a Pastel Lime Wrasse:

• Look for active individuals with clear eyes and vibrant colours.
• Ensure that they are free from visible signs of stress or illness, such as faded colours or clamped fins.

Physical Appearance

Key characteristics:

• As the name suggests, Pastel Lime Wrasses have a gentle blend of pastel colours, primarily greenish hues.
• They typically display a streamlined body and can reach lengths of up to 5 inches when fully grown.

Compatibility with Other Fish

Compatibility factors:

• Pastel Lime Wrasses are generally peaceful but can become territorial with members of their species or similar-looking fish.
• It's advisable to keep them in a mixed-species environment to reduce the chance of aggression.

Reef Safe

Considerations for reef tanks:

• These wrasses are generally considered reef-safe, but they might snack on small invertebrates like copepods and amphipods.
• They usually do not disturb corals or larger invertebrates.

Suitable Tank Size

Recommendations for housing:

• A tank of at least 200 litres is recommended for one Pastel Lime Wrasse.
• They enjoy a sandy substrate as they may bury themselves for protection or during the night.

Water Conditions

Ideal water parameters:

• Temperature: 22-25.5°C
• pH levels: 8.1-8.4.
• Specific gravity: 1.020-1.025.

Preparing Your Tank

Setup guidance:

• A well-decorated aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploration is ideal.
• A sandy bottom is essential, as these wrasses might take to burying themselves when they feel threatened or while sleeping.

Monitoring Behaviour

Behavioural insights:

• These wrasses are diurnal, active during the day and resting at night.
• Observing their behaviour can help identify any potential stressors or compatibility issues in the tank.

Feeding Schedule

Nutritional guidance:

• Pastel Lime Wrasses are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods, including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other small marine crustaceans.
• It's recommended to feed them small amounts once or twice daily.

Adding a Pastel Lime Wrasse to your tank can introduce a serene blend of colours that contrasts beautifully with other marine species. With proper care and attention, they can become a cherished member of your underwater community.