Two Spot Wrasse

Cheilinus bimaculatus

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 Hydrogen

Measuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.

NO3 1-20 ppm Nitrate

While 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 Nitrite

It is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia

PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm Phosphate

It is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.

NH3 <0.1 ppm Ammonia

It is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death

Ca 380 - 450 ppm Calcium

Supporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae

KH 8 - 12 dKH Alkalinity

It acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.

Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm Magnesium

It 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 Salinity

Essential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals

ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction Potential

A higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.

About Two Spot Wrasse

General information

The Two Spot Wrasse is one of the smallest members of a group of ornate wrasses. True to its namesake, the Two Spot Wrasse is beautifully adorned with striking facial markings punctuated by two, dark spots. Gorgeous tomato-red coloration crackles vibrantly across the face of the Two Spot Wrasse and continues all the way to the caudal fin to create an exotic network of color and pattern. Typical of many wrasses the Two Spot Wrasse demonstrates sexual dimorphism. The male Two Spot Wrasse sports a rhomboid caudal fin, often with a single elongate filament that extends from the top. In contrast, the female Two Spot Wrasse has a round tail and no filament. This festive wrasse is sure to make a colorful addition to the fish-only marine or Fish-Only-With-Live-Rock aquarium. The Two Spot Wrasse inhabits the outer reef slopes and deep lagoons among rubble and algae. To best replicate, this environment, the ideal setup for the Two Spot Wrasse will be a well-established saltwater aquarium of at least a medium sized tank, make sure to aquascape with live rock. Incorporate a large area of open substrate as well as open spaces for swimming. The Two Spot Wrasse is a curious fish of contrasting colorations and behavior. The shy and sensitive Two Spot Wrasse becomes a hardy and gregarious fish once it is fully acclimated to its new environment. It is important to maintain a stress-free environment during the initial introductory period. Therefore, house the Two Spot Wrasse with other peaceful species. As the established fish matures, it may demonstrate aggressive territorial behavior towards similar-sized fish. Generally, only one Two Spot Wrasse is recommended per aquarium.

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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