Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus ocellatus)

The Mystery Wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus ocellatus, is a stunning and elusive marine fish admired for its vibrant colours and energetic personality. With its deep purple-to-reddish body, adorned with striking electric blue markings and a distinctive black eyespot near its tail, this wrasse is a true standout in any aquarium. Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Mystery Wrasse is a hardy and reef-safe species that thrives in well-structured reef tanks, making it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a unique and engaging fish.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Pseudocheilinus ocellatus
• Common Name: Mystery Wrasse, Five-Bar Wrasse
• Size: Typically grows up to 5 inches in length
• Diet: Carnivorous; enjoys a varied diet of marine pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; best housed with similarly tempered or larger tank mates
• Habitat: Ideal for reef or fish-only tanks with plenty of live rock and hiding spaces
• Care Level: Moderate; suitable for aquarists with some marine experience

Why Choose the Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus ocellatus)?

The Mystery Wrasse is a fantastic choice for aquarists looking to add a bold, colourful, and highly active fish to their aquarium. Its constantly moving, inquisitive nature makes it an entertaining addition, while its hardy disposition ensures it thrives in a variety of marine setups. This wrasse is reef-safe and generally leaves corals and larger invertebrates alone, making it a great choice for reef enthusiasts. However, it may prey on smaller crustaceans, so careful consideration of tank mates is advised.

Care Tips:

• Water Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions with a temperature of 75°F - 80°F (24°C - 27°C), pH between 8.1 - 8.4, and salinity levels of 1.023 - 1.025. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential for this species.
• Feeding: Mystery Wrasses thrive on a protein-rich diet. Offer high-quality marine pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions.
• Tank Setup: A tank of at least 50 gallons is recommended, with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploring. A secure lid is essential, as Mystery Wrasses are known jumpers.
• Behaviour: This species is semi-aggressive and may become territorial, especially in smaller tanks. It is best housed with similarly tempered fish and should be introduced after more timid species to reduce potential aggression.

Perfect for Reef and Community Tanks:

The Mystery Wrasse is a striking and functional addition to reef and community tanks, offering beautiful colouration, high activity levels, and reef-safe compatibility. Its dynamic movement and personality make it a favourite among marine aquarists.

Order Your Mystery Wrasse Today:

Add the striking beauty and energetic presence of the Mystery Wrasse to your marine aquarium. Browse our selection and place your order today to receive a healthy, vibrant fish that will thrive in your aquatic environment.