Hovens wrasse

[surfer64]

Anybody keep one with out a sandbed? They seem fat and happy at the Lfs with out sand. Is there any way to tell if it's a male or female when they are young? I really like the male coloration.

 

[Dmorty217]

I have one but I have a sand bed (6") .not sure you can tell when they are young if they are male/female. I believe mine was a female and is slowly changing over to a male. Here is the only pic I could find

 

[Dmorty217]

Pic didn't show up but LA has the pic

 

[surfer64]

Yeah I saw the picture on LA. When ever I see them at the Lfs it always looks like the female/juvinal but they are only around 2.5 3 inches so I'm not sure what stage they are in. Do they always change to male coloration if they are the only one in the tank?

 

[eatbreakfast]

Yes, if it is the only wrasse in the tank it will turn to a male.

No, H. melanurus should not be kept in a tank without sand. It will probably survive, but keeping it without sand is keeping it without its source of protection and its place of sleep.