Queen Coris Wrasse (Coris formosa)

Description:

Behavior: The Queen Coris Wrasse, also known as the Formosa Wrasse, is a large and active species known for its striking coloration and dynamic behavior. These fish are generally semi-aggressive and can become territorial, especially towards other wrasses. They thrive in well-structured environments with plenty of live rock, caves, and open swimming areas. Queen Coris Wrasses are known for their inquisitive nature and will often bury themselves in the sand when frightened or resting.

Color: The Queen Coris Wrasse is visually stunning, featuring different color patterns as it matures. Juveniles have a bright orange-red body with white spots and a black and white striped tail. As they mature, their coloration changes dramatically to a silver body with black dots and a green stripe across its yellow face. Its fins are adorned in red. The Adult coloration is truly a spectacle. 

Diet: Queen Coris Wrasses are carnivores and thrive on a varied diet rich in protein. They do well on a mix of high-quality flake food, pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Including live foods like small crustaceans can also help stimulate their natural hunting behavior. Providing a varied diet helps maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Tankmates: Queen Coris Wrasses are generally semi-aggressive and can be housed with other robust and similarly sized fish. Suitable tankmates include larger tangs, angelfish, and other semi-aggressive species. Avoid housing them with very small or timid fish that may be intimidated or outcompeted for food. Due to their territorial nature, it is important to carefully select tankmates that can coexist with them.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Queen Coris Wrasses are generally not considered reef-safe, as they may pose a risk to smaller invertebrates such as shrimp and crabs. They do not typically harm corals, but their predatory behavior can disturb the substrate and potentially disrupt delicate organisms. They are best kept in fish-only setups or carefully monitored mixed tanks.

Max Size: Queen Coris Wrasses can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) in length. Due to their large size and active nature, they require a spacious aquarium of at least 180 gallons to thrive and maintain good water quality.

Origin: Queen Coris Wrasses are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Sexual Dimorphism: Queen Coris Wrasses do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it difficult to distinguish males from females based solely on appearance.

Interesting Facts:

• Queen Coris Wrasses are known for their dramatic color transformation from juvenile to adult, making them a favorite among marine aquarists.

• They are relatively hardy and can adapt well to captivity with proper care and a well-maintained environment.

• Queen Coris Wrasses are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their surroundings, adding dynamic movement to the aquarium.

• Their bold behavior and unique appearance make them a captivating addition to any large marine tank.

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.