Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus Ocellatus)

The Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus ocellatus), also known as the Whitebarred Wrasse or Tail-Spot Wrasse, is a prized addition to established marine aquariums. Native to deeper Indo-Pacific reef slopes, it showcases vibrant reddish-maroon, yellow, and iridescent blue-purple coloration accented with thin vertical white bars.

Active and inquisitive, this wrasse constantly weaves through live rockwork while providing natural pest control against flatworms and pyramidellid snails. It thrives in well-established systems with plenty of hiding spaces, requiring a secure aquarium cover to prevent jumping.

Key Features

Highlights

• Scientific Name: Pseudocheilinus ocellatus
• Primary Common Name: Mystery Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Whitebarred Wrasse, Tail-Spot Wrasse
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Marshall Islands, Coral Sea, Japan)
• Max Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Assertive
• Diet: Carnivore (Small inverts, zooplankton)
• Minimum Tank Size: 75-90 Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (Safe with corals; may eat small shrimp/snails)

Materials & care

• Diet: This species is a dedicated Carnivore that feeds primarily on small benthic invertebrates and zooplankton in the wild. In the aquarium, it requires a varied diet of meaty foods, including vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality sinking pellets.
• Feeding: Due to its high metabolism and active nature, the Mystery Wrasse must be fed 2 to 3 times per day in small portions.
• Reef Compatibility: It is generally considered Reef Safe With Caution. While it will not harm corals or anemones, it may pose a risk to small, ornamental shrimp (such as smaller cleaner shrimp or sexy shrimp) and miniature snails or crabs. Its known appetite for pyramidellid snails and flatworms is a major benefit for coral keepers.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive / Assertive. It is territorial, especially with newcomers and fish that resemble it. Do not house the Mystery Wrasse with other wrasses from the Pseudocheilinus genus (e.g., Six-Line Wrasse). It is best added after less aggressive fish have established themselves and should be the sole wrasse of its kind in the tank.
• Aquarium Cover: A tight-fitting, secure lid is mandatory. Like all wrasses, the Mystery Wrasse is an expert jumper, especially when startled.

Compatibility

Reef safe with caution. Safe with corals and anemones, but may eat small ornamental shrimp and snails. Avoid housing with other Pseudocheilinus wrasses.

Important Fulfillment Information

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