Dragon Wrasse

The Dragon Wrasse, *Novaculichthys taeniourus*, is a fascinating and active addition to a large, established marine aquarium. Known for its unique appearance and behavior, this wrasse is a captivating species for the advanced aquarist.

A minimum tank size of 180 gallons is recommended for the Dragon Wrasse due to its potential size and active nature. Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, this species is known for its distinctive juvenile coloration and its habit of burying itself in the sand at night or when startled. As they mature, their coloration changes significantly, adding to their appeal.

In the aquarium, the Dragon Wrasse requires a deep sand bed to facilitate its burying behavior. They are carnivorous and will readily accept a varied diet of high-quality marine meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. Due to their predatory nature, they are not suitable for reef tanks with small invertebrates or peaceful, slow-moving fish. This species is best kept in a fish-only or FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) aquarium with robust tankmates. The Dragon Wrasse is considered an advanced species due to its size, dietary needs, and potential for aggression towards smaller tankmates.