Iridis Wrasse (Halichoeres iridis)

The Iridis Wrasse (Halichoeres iridis) is a moderately sized and visually attractive wrasse from the Western Indian Ocean, displaying a spectacular iridescent shimmering blend of greens, pinks, and golds that shift and catch the light with every movement — an effect that inspired its name (iridis = iridescent). Native to reef environments around the western Indian Ocean rim, it is a moderately hardy species that adapts well to aquarium life with proper care and appropriate setup. Like all Halichoeres wrasses, it buries itself in the sand bed at night and when startled — a sandy substrate of at least 5 cm depth is not optional but required for its health and wellbeing. An active, visible, and reef-safe wrasse.

Provide at least 150 liters with a fine sand bed of minimum 5 cm depth for sleeping and stress retreats. Feed twice daily with frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, and small marine pellets. A secure, tightly fitting lid is recommended as wrasses are jumpers. Generally reef-safe with corals and larger invertebrates; may prey on very small ornamental shrimp. Peaceful toward dissimilar fish species.