Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma Lutescens)

Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma Lutescens)

Medium (3-6")
$153.29
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Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma Lutescens)

Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma Lutescens)

$153.29
Size

The Sunset Wrasse (Thalassoma lutescens), also known as the Banana Wrasse, is an energetic and brightly colored marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific. Reaching up to 25 to 30 cm in home aquariums, this active swimmer showcases vivid yellow-green hues in its initial phase, transforming into an array of greenish-blue with pink and red markings as a terminal phase male.

Ideal for large fish-only setups, this robust species thrives in aquariums of at least 473.2 to 567.8 L with a deep, fine-grained sand bed and a secure lid. As a natural carnivore with a high metabolism, it requires a diverse diet of meaty marine foods and pairs best with bold, similarly semi-aggressive tankmates.

Key Features

Scientific Name Thalassoma lutescens
Common Name Sunset Wrasse
Other Common Names Banana Wrasse, Yellow-brown Wrasse, Lime Green Wrasse
Origin Indo-Pacific
Max Size 25-30 cm
Temperament Semi-Aggressive / Aggressive
Diet Carnivore
Minimum Tank Size 473.2-567.8 L
Reef Compatibility No / Extreme Caution
Water Type Marine / Saltwater

Highlights

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Thalassoma lutescens
  • Primary Common Name: Sunset Wrasse
  • Other Common Names: Banana Wrasse, Yellow-brown Wrasse, Lime Green Wrasse
  • Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
  • Max Size: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
  • Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Aggressive (Very Active)
  • Diet: Carnivore (Must be fed multiple times daily)
  • Minimum Tank Size: 125-150+ Gallons
  • Reef Compatibility: No / Extreme Caution (Will prey on invertebrates)

Compatibility

Best housed in a Fish Only With Live Rock (FOWLR) system with large, active, semi-aggressive tankmates such as large tangs, angelfish, puffers, and triggerfish. Must be kept singly as it will fight other Thalassoma wrasses, and it is not safe with ornamental invertebrates like shrimp, crabs, and snails.

Frequently asked questions

What size aquarium does the Sunset Wrasse require?

The Sunset Wrasse requires a minimum aquarium volume of 473.2 to 567.8 L due to its active swimming behavior and large adult size.

Is the Sunset Wrasse reef safe?

No, it is not considered reef safe as it actively preys on small ornamental invertebrates like snails, crabs, and shrimp, making it best suited for FOWLR systems.

What should the Sunset Wrasse be fed?

It is a carnivore that requires high-quality meaty foods such as enriched mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped clam, squid, and marine pellets fed 2 to 3 times daily.

Does this fish require a sand bed or a secure aquarium lid?

Yes, a tight-fitting weighted lid is required to prevent jumping, and a soft sand bed of 7.6 to 10.2 cm is recommended for burrowing and sleeping.

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