Wrasse compatibility

[jrlafrance]

I currently have a Checkerboard Wrasse (Halichoeres hortulanus) in my 140 reef. 2 days ago I added a Potters Wrasse (Macropharyngodon geoffroyi). For the first day, the Potters stayed hidden, probably in the sand. But since then, when he comes out, the checkerboard wrasse has been charging at him, pushing him to the top of the tank. Thankfully I have a cover and he hasn't been able to jump out. However, is there something I'm missing as to why the checkerboard is acting this way? The fish are completely different colors, body shape, etc.

 

[PDR]

IME most wrasses will harass new wrasse additions at first, that is why a social acclimation box is so important with wrasses. I also think the checkerboard tends to be on the more aggressive side.

 

[jrlafrance]

IME most wrasses will harass new wrasse additions at first, that is why a social acclimation box is so important with wrasses. I also think the checkerboard tends to be on the more aggressive side.

I forgot to mention that I did have the Potters in a acclimation box for 1 day prior to releasing him into the tank.

 

[PDR]

I forgot to mention that I did have the Potters in a acclimation box for 1 day prior to releasing him into the tank.

They probably needed more time to sort out dominance, I usually keep them in the acclimation box for 5-7 days to be safe. I would put him back in the acclimation box if you can catch him.

 

[4FordFamily]

IME checkerboard wrasse are underclassified for aggression. I find them to be pretty aggressive. @HotRocks has a nasty one right now.

I’d consider them aggressive, not moderately aggressive.

 

[Jesterrace]

IME most wrasses will harass new wrasse additions at first, that is why a social acclimation box is so important with wrasses. I also think the checkerboard tends to be on the more aggressive side.

Yup my Melanurus gave my Blue Star Leopard a hard time (still does a bit at feeding time). As mentioned if they are established they can be quite assertive at first.

 

[HotRocks]

IME checkerboard wrasse are underclassified for aggression. I find them to be pretty aggressive. @HotRocks has a nasty one right now.

I’d consider them aggressive, not moderately aggressive.

+1 to underrated aggressors.

Mine is the only aggressive wrasse in my tank. Soon to be rehomed to a much larger system...

 

[jrlafrance]

thanks for the input everyone, I had no idea the checkerboard was that aggressive!