Leopard Wrasse (female)
Scientific Name: Macropharyngodon meleagris
Also Known As: Guinea Fowl Wrasse, Blackspotted Wrasse
Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Aquarium Size: Approx. 300L+
Maximum Size: Approx. 12cm
Origin: Indo-Pacific
The Leopard Wrasse (Macropharyngodon meleagris) is one of the most striking wrasses available in the marine aquarium hobby, prized for its intricate spotted patterning, active behaviour and dramatic difference in appearance between males and females.
Females typically display a pale body covered in irregular dark spots with blue or white edging, while mature males develop a much stronger orange-red and green patterned appearance.
Aquarium Care
Leopard Wrasses are best suited to mature, established marine or reef aquariums with plenty of live rock and a healthy population of natural microfauna.
A fine sand bed is essential, as Leopard Wrasses naturally bury themselves in the substrate when sleeping and when frightened. Coarse or sharp substrates should be avoided.
They spend much of the day actively searching the rockwork and substrate for small crustaceans and other tiny organisms, making an established aquarium particularly important for long-term success.
They are generally peaceful and can make excellent additions to larger community reef aquariums. A secure aquarium lid is also strongly recommended, as wrasses are capable jumpers.
Feeding
Leopard Wrasses naturally feed on small invertebrates and crustaceans living throughout reef environments.
Suitable foods include:
Newly introduced Leopard Wrasses can sometimes be reluctant to accept prepared foods, which is one of the main reasons we recommend them for more experienced marine keepers.
A mature reef aquarium with a healthy natural food supply gives them the best opportunity to settle in successfully.
Reef Compatibility
Leopard Wrasses are generally considered reef safe and will normally leave corals alone.
Their constant hunting behaviour can actually make them fascinating fish to watch, as they spend the day weaving through rockwork searching for food.
Why We Like Them
The Leopard Wrasse is a genuine showpiece marine fish. Their intricate patterning, constant movement and dramatic colour changes as they mature make them one of the most interesting wrasses to keep.
They do require a little more preparation than many common marine fish, particularly when it comes to having an established aquarium, suitable sand bed and reliable food supply, but in the right setup they are an incredible addition to a reef tank.
