Lineatus Wrasse Harassing Rhomboid

[Mr. Fishy Fish]

Hey everyone,

I have a Rhomboid and Lineatus wrasse. The Lineatus wrasse won't stop harassing the Rhomboid. Every time the Lineatus crosses paths with the Rhomboid it chases it. The Rhomboid tries to hide, but the Lineatus eventually crosses paths with the rhomboid's hiding place then chases the Rhomboid out of hiding. They've been in the same tank for two days (introduced at the same time) and this pattern is getting worse as time goes on. They're in a 200-gallon DT the dimensions are 70.9" L x 30" W x 21.7" H.

Should I consider separating them permanently, or should I wait to see if the aggression pans out?

 

[Ryebreadiest]

Sounds like a question for the wrasse thread but having lurked there for a while, I think they will tell you that because the two wrasses are so closely related, that it’s possible the aggression will never stop and one will bully the other to death.

 

[saltyhog]

Unfortunately it may not. As @Ryebreadiest said these two species are closely related. It also doesn't help that the Rhomboid is probably the most demure species in this complex. If the hiding isn't constant and the rhomboid is feeding well you may be able to give it some time and see. If not I would act now to separate them.

 

[Mr. Fishy Fish]

Well, to my surprise the aggression has subsided completely. After the Lineatus settled in and started eating like a pig he left the Rhomboid alone. The Rhomboid is also coming out during feedings and eating. I'll keep observing them for now. However, after observing them for about two hours I noticed no chasing even when they were right next to each other.