Thalassoma lutescens (Banana Wrasse)

[Danieltank]

I know it is listed as not reefe safe, but I am considering this fish for my reeftank. Will it eat my tridacna clams?
Also what color is this fish when it is around 3 inches? If any of you who keeps this fish could post pics, it would be great.

 

[anbosu]

I think clams would potentially be on the menu. They won't bother corals, but crabs, snails, shrimp and clams are all potential meals.

Kirkaz has had one for a while, hopefully he will chime in.

 

[Sheol]

I have one, but he's destined for a larger Reef ( at least that was the plan, before I lost my stinking job! GRRRRRRRGGGHH) soo.
Will root in LR & overturn frags not glued down. Otherwise, safe with coral. Young ones not too bad socially, large ones fit for Aggressive tanks only. Hyperactive, & strong food competitor, too. Don't house with slow, shy fish!!!

Matthew

 

[Sheol]

Edit: OOPs, I have a Lunare. Sorry, but the pic is so similar as a thumbnail. Still, what i said goes for all the Thalassoma Wrasses.

 

[cakemanPA]

All snail and crabs will be meals. If you have clams, you won't for long with one of these guys around. I have one in my FOWLR and would not ever consider one for in my reef....

 

[NexDog]

I have a foot and a half long Squamosa. I don't think this wrasse would have much luck trying to eat that. Thoughts?

 

[cakemanPA]

Not in one piece.... lol... But I'd be willing to bet there would be pieces bit off

 

[Danieltank]

Thanks for your inputs. I don't have any shrimps or craps, so that is not a concern. But I do have 5 tridacna clams, so maybe this fish is not at good bet.

 

[kirkaz]

Pretty much no crustacean is safe from this genus of Wrasse, T. Lutescens is no exception. I often get live clams at the Asian Market, and no matter how large, he eventually pries them open. Never seen him bother my soft corals, but Crustaceans = Wrasse food.

 

[Sheol]

They are predators of crustaceans, clams, & small fish. PERIOD.
Caveat Emptor..

Matthew