New to wrasses

[puffy127]

Thinking about getting a male golden rhomboid wrasse and am reading up on wrasses as I am new to them. In order for it to keep its color, I see that I should get another male wrasse of a different species. What would you recommend for a 75 gallon? I like lineatus and flames, but see that they need 90g and my 75g is pretty stocked, so maybe something smaller. I like mccoskers, carpeneters, red velvet. Alternatively, would a yellow coris work to keep the rhomboid's colors? Also where are some good places to purchase?

 

[Detroit Dave]

Any of the fairy wrasse tend to be peaceful

 

[Ocelaris]

I've not heard that it's required to have other fairy wrasses to keep their colors in top shape, but I'm new as well. If you haven't seen the wrasse articles, this chart came from it and has been very helpful. I'd suggest any of the smaller non aggressive fairy wrasses like solarensis or exquisitus. It's best to introduce them at the same time to minimize aggression, or use a social acclimation box later. I'd look locally if you have a good lfs, otherwise liveaquaria is good. Blue zoo aquatics or nyaquatic also carry a decent selection. I've not purchased any online, so I can't speak to those stores.

The trick is to get them eating soon and fatten them up for quarantine medications or ttm. Once they've made it through a week and are eating well they've all done great through tank transfer method.

 

[evolved]

Thinking about getting a male golden rhomboid wrasse and am reading up on wrasses as I am new to them. In order for it to keep its color, I see that I should get another male wrasse of a different species. What would you recommend for a 75 gallon? I like lineatus and flames, but see that they need 90g and my 75g is pretty stocked, so maybe something smaller. I like mccoskers, carpeneters, red velvet. Alternatively, would a yellow coris work to keep the rhomboid's colors? Also where are some good places to purchase?

Consider exquisitus or lubbocki.

I've not heard that it's required to have other fairy wrasses to keep their colors in top shape

It's not necessarily required, but it does help. It all depends on the social interaction of all the fish in the tank - things may be fine with just a single wrasse.

 

[puffy127]

Thanks. I'm starting to think maybe since I'm new to wrasses, I may start with a female rhomboid first (and to save my wallet). What are things I can try to accelerate the transition to male?

 

[evolved]

What are things I can try to accelerate the transition to male?

Well, create an environment where it can be the dominant fish. Easier said than done however...

 

[puffy127]

uggh. Now I'm waffling. I like the look of the supermale rhomboid, but the females are quite dull. I don't think I want to risk having a female not change into a male or supermale for months or even years.