Adorned Wrasse (Halichoeres cosmetus)

A vivid, reef-associated wrasse prized for its active personality and striking coloration. Best in established systems with rockwork and a sandy substrate so it can exhibit natural wrasse behavior.

Care: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful Diet: Carnivore Reef Safe: Yes (Caution) Min Tank: 50g Max Size: ~5″
Pro tip: Wrasses are jumpers — use a tight-fitting lid or mesh top.
Adorned Wrasse (Halichoeres cosmetus) swimming in a reef aquarium
Image: Adorned Wrasse (swap with your optimized WebP)
Scientific Name
Halichoeres cosmetus
Minimum Tank
50 Gallons+
Temperament
Peaceful
Diet
Carnivore

Adorned Wrasse Photos (Use Your Own Compressed WebP)

Add 4–8 unique images (different angles, juvenile/adult if available). Use descriptive filenames and alt text.

Adorned Wrasse side profile showing coloration
Side profile (adult)
Adorned Wrasse face close up with blue markings
Face markings
Adorned Wrasse swimming above sandbed in reef aquarium
Over sandbed
Adorned Wrasse near live rock searching for food
Foraging behavior

Adorned Wrasse Care Guide

The Adorned Wrasse is an active Halichoeres wrasse that thrives in well-maintained aquariums with open swimming lanes, rockwork to explore, and a sandbed for natural resting behavior. A calm community of reef fish helps this wrasse settle quickly and show its best coloration.

Tank Size & Aquascape

  • Minimum: 50 gallons+
  • Provide live rock caves + open swim space
  • Sandbed recommended for natural wrasse behavior
  • Lid required (jump risk)

Diet & Feeding

  • Carnivore: feed mysis, chopped marine foods
  • Supplement with quality pellets/flakes
  • Feed 1–2x daily in established systems
  • Foraging behavior can help with some pests

Temperament & Compatibility

  • Peaceful community wrasse
  • Reef safe with caution around delicate inverts
  • Best with other peaceful fish (tangs, clowns, gobies)
  • Avoid aggressive wrasses in smaller tanks

Water Parameters

Temperature: 74–80°F
Salinity: 1.023–1.026
pH: 8.1–8.4
Stability: prioritize consistent alkalinity & low swings

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Adorned Wrasse FAQ

Is the Adorned Wrasse reef safe?
Yes, it’s generally considered reef safe, but use caution with delicate ornamental invertebrates.
What tank size is best?
A minimum of 50 gallons is recommended, with more space being better for long-term stability and swimming room.
What does it eat?
Carnivore diet: frozen mysis, chopped marine foods, and quality pellets/flakes once it’s feeding confidently.
Do wrasses jump?
Many wrasses can jump—use a lid or mesh top, especially during the first weeks after introduction.

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