Blunthead Wrasse
Thalassoma amblycephalum
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Wrasse
Family: Labridae
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Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Blunthead Wrasse
General information
The Blunthead Wrasse has a conspicuously rounded or blunted head that is accentuated by its sleek, rod-shaped body. Similar to many wrasse species, the Blunthead Wrasse demonstrates dramatic color variation within individuals based on gender and age. The Blunthead Wrasse transforms from a rather non-descript fish to a striking fish demonstrating a vivid progression of lively colors. Initial phase male and female Blunthead Wrasses are nearly indistinguishable. A brownish-black stripe with uneven edges bisects the entire length of the body. A similar dark stripe running parallel along the dorsal region and a flash of orange at the peduncle further break up the primary white coloration of both initial phase male and female Blunthead Wrasses. As an adult, the male Blunthead Wrasses blossoms with vibrant coloration. The anterior region develops a beautiful blue-green coloration that transitions to a brilliant yellow. A gorgeous red body completes the rainbow effect. The Blunthead Wrasse should be housed in a 75 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and a sandy substrate that may be used for burrowing into at night. In addition to ample hiding places, a large open area is required for the active and fast-swimming Blunthead Wrasse. In large aquariums, several initial phases and juvenile Blunthead Wrasse may be housed together in relative peace. However, as adults, the Blunthead Wrasse demonstrates greater aggression and is best kept singularly in a Fish Only With Live Rock aquarium with gregarious tankmates.
Cautions
Wrasse are considered jumpers make sure your aquarium has a tight-fitting canopy or screen cover to prevent the Wrasse from jumping out of your aquarium. Wrasse have been known to jump through the smallest of holes in a canopy.
Wrasses prefer to have a 2″ (5cm) sandbed to allow them to burrow into the sand to sleep or when they feel like they are in danger. Some people with bare bottom tanks have also added a Tupperware with a 2″ deep sand bed to accommodate the wrasse’s needs.
They are generally peaceful but may display aggression towards members of the same species.
Cautions
Wrasse are considered jumpers make sure your aquarium has a tight-fitting canopy or screen cover to prevent the Wrasse from jumping out of your aquarium. Wrasse have been known to jump through the smallest of holes in a canopy.
Wrasses prefer to have a 2" (5cm) sandbed to allow them to burrow into the sand to sleep or when they feel like they are in danger. Some people with bare bottom tanks have also added a Tupperware with a 2" deep sand bed to accommodate the wrasse's needs.
They are generally peaceful but may display aggression towards members of the same species.
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