Halichoeres chloropterus "Green Wrasse" a clam eater

[Gary Majchrzak]

Beware. Based on many eyewitness accounts, Halichoeres chloropterus (the "Green Coris Wrasse") being used in aquariums for the control of Montipora eating nudis will attack and eat healthy Tridcna clams.

 

[KurtsReef]

Sorry to hear about that, hope the clam is alright.

The foxface was nipping at the clam I had, but that clam was dying.

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

I didn't place this fish in my aquarium, but it was a close call! Sue (and John) at MO tipped me off about the fact. A quick search of RC confirmed it.
I know most Halichoeres are "iffy" in reef systems.
I think I'll stick to other Wrasses.

 

[jbanks]

Hey Gary, I actually have a green choris that resembles a small dolphin he's so big.. He is a model citizen.. He doesn't like to be picked on though. He will definitley stand his ground.. I have 4 clams and he doesn't even look at them.. He may be the exception though. However, I will watch him...

 

[oneradtek202]

a melanurus wrasse, might be a safer addition. Not sure about clams though, mine doesnt bother anything i have

 

[tmz]

I have one of those in my 120 . There is a nice maxma in there too. Been about 4 years without trouble. Hadn't heard they were a threat to tridacna.They do eat pryamedillid snails though. In fact Foster and Smith ,fwiw, cites them as beneficial to clams as they eat the parasitic snails on them. I also have a Halichores iridis ( radiant) ; no trouble. No nudis either. Maybe I'm just lucky.