Fairy wrasse bonding

[longranger]

How long does it usually take for newly introduced fairy wrasses of the same species to bond if ever? My only experience is a pair of Flames that have now bonded after 2 weeks or so in the QT tank. Thinking of getting a couple of more species of fairy wrasse and would be more inclined to do pairs if bonding in a relatively short time period is typical.

 

[evolved]

I'm bothered in general by the usage of the term "bonded" when it comes to wrasses. Wrasses do not form bonded relationships as clown fish do; relationships amongst wrasses are all about dominance and submission, just like that of anthias.

Provided two conspecific wrasses and they are not both males, this relationship should establish itself.

 

[longranger]

Thanks for the answer evolved. Makes sense. I am motivated to keep pairs so the boys might maintain brighter colors. Also in some of the species it almost looks like two different wrasse varieties anyway.

 

[albano]

I have over 30 wrasses in my DT...many started out as 'pairs'...they seem to all end up male!

 

[longranger]

Fish tanks really are like prison.

 

[evolved]

Oh that's a separate, but often common, scenario (females eventually transitioning to male).