Checkerboard Wrasse (Halichoeres hortulanus)

The checkerboard wrasse (Halichoeres hortulanus) also known as the marble or hortulanus wrasse. They undergo a fairly dramatic transformation in colouring as they age. They are also able to change sex during their lifetime. They are all born as females and dependant on social cues are able to change into males. Usually in any given area there are numerous females and a single male. If the male disappears for any reason the largest female in the area will usually change into a male.

The Marble/Hortulanus Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.