Wrasse aggression

[cubbyman60]

Hey all,

Just purchased a new wrasse from the LFS. It was labeled as a yellow-brown wrasse (banana wrasse i.e. Thalassoma lutescens per live aquaria). However, I feel that it is more likely a yellow coris wrasse, i.e. Halichoeres chrysus, based on coloration. It could also, less likely, be Halichoeres leucoxanthus (yellow-purple).

In the tank is also a blue headed wrasse (Thalassoma bifasciatum). The new yellow wrasse has been in the tank for one day. It immediately was bullied by the blue headed wrasse and disappeared into the sand. Is this going to resolve, or will it be continually bullied by the blue headed wrasse? Thank you.

 

[joshky]

Thalassoma are generally not very reef safe or community friendly, they have a very boisterous attitude and will flip rocks, corals, etc. over looking for food and adding other wrasses with them can be very hit and miss (mostly miss).

 

[evolved]

Thalassoma are generally not very reef safe or community friendly, they have a very boisterous attitude and will flip rocks, corals, etc. over looking for food and adding other wrasses with them can be very hit and miss (mostly miss).

Yup; Thalassoma = pretty nasty.

They won't be compatible.

 

[cubbyman60]

Thanks for the replies.

The blue headed wrasse (the aggressor) is docile towards all other fish including a recently added Anampses neoguinaicus (black backed wrasse) and other wrasses in the past.

Will the behavior be relentless or will it subside? Does one have to go? Is he more compatible with certain varieties?