Timor Wrasse

The Timor Wrasse (Halichoeres timorensis) is a colorful and active Indo-Pacific species valued for both its striking appearance and lively behavior in marine aquariums. Best suited for established systems of at least 50 gallons, this wrasse thrives in tanks with stable water parameters, ample swimming space, and a fine sand bed, which is essential as it naturally buries itself at night or when startled. Generally peaceful but not ideal for housing with very small invertebrates, the Timor Wrasse is considered reef-safe with caution and should be kept with a secure lid due to its tendency to jump. It does well in typical reef conditions with temperatures of 74–80°F (23–27°C), salinity of 1.023–1.025, and a pH of 8.1–8.4. In the wild, it feeds on small crustaceans and worms, and in captivity it readily accepts a varied, protein-rich diet including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets or flakes, offered once or twice daily to maintain health and vibrant coloration.