Green Bird Wrasse (Gomphosus varius)

Green Bird Wrasse (Gomphosus varius)

The Green Bird Wrasse is a striking and highly active saltwater fish known for its elongated beak-like snout and bold coloration. This fish is an excellent choice for large aquariums, where its energetic swimming and playful behavior add constant movement and personality. Hardy and adaptable, the Green Bird Wrasse is a fascinating species that thrives in well-established fish-only or FOWLR (Fish Only with Live Rock) setups.

Appearance: The Green Bird Wrasse undergoes a dramatic color change as it matures. Juveniles are typically brown or mottled green, while adult males develop a brilliant emerald green body with a sleek, streamlined shape. Their most distinctive feature is their elongated snout, which they use to probe crevices for food. Males tend to have a more vibrant green coloration, while females remain a duller shade of brownish-green.

Behavior: Green Bird Wrasses are incredibly active swimmers and require ample open space to move freely. They are curious, intelligent, and often interact with their environment in unique ways. While they are not overly aggressive, they are opportunistic feeders and may prey on small fish and invertebrates. These wrasses do best in large aquariums with plenty of rockwork to explore.

Diet: The Green Bird Wrasse is a carnivore that requires a protein-rich diet. They will readily accept a variety of meaty foods, including mysis shrimp, krill, chopped squid, and marine-based pellets. Their natural hunting instincts make them effective at controlling populations of unwanted pests, such as bristle worms and small crustaceans. Feeding multiple times a day helps keep them healthy and active.

Tank Requirements: A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is required for a Green Bird Wrasse, as they are fast swimmers and need open space. They thrive in aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A secure lid is essential, as they are known to jump when startled. Stable water conditions and excellent filtration are necessary to support their high activity levels.

Tankmates: Green Bird Wrasses are best housed with other medium to large semi-aggressive fish, such as tangs, triggerfish, and larger angelfish. They should not be kept with small, slow-moving fish or delicate invertebrates, as they may be seen as prey. Due to their energetic nature, they can sometimes disturb more timid species, so tankmate selection should be done carefully.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Green Bird Wrasses are not reef-safe, as they will consume small fish, shrimp, crabs, and other invertebrates. They are best suited for fish-only or FOWLR aquariums where they can display their natural behaviors without disrupting delicate reef life.

Max Size: Green Bird Wrasses can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length, making them a large and active species that requires a spacious tank.

Origin: This species is found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the waters of Hawaii, the Red Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are typically found near coral reefs and rocky outcrops, where they hunt for small invertebrates.

Interesting Facts:

• The elongated snout of the Green Bird Wrasse allows it to pick prey from tight crevices in rocks and coral formations.
• Males and females exhibit different coloration, with males turning a vivid green as they mature.
• They are excellent jumpers, so a tightly secured aquarium lid is required.

Disclaimer: Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.