Description
Scientific Name: Macropharyngodon kuiteri
Common Names: Kuiter’s Leopard Wrasse, Ear-spot Wrasse, Black Leopard Wrasse
Maximum Length: 5 inches (12 cm)
Minimum Aquarium Size: 50 gallons (189 liters)
Foods and Feeding Habits: Carnivorous; feeds on small invertebrates like foraminiferans, amphipods, and copepods in the wild. In aquariums, offer vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or live copepods, supplemented with high-quality marine flake or pellet foods. Feed 1-2 times daily, ensuring a varied diet to support its active foraging behavior.
Reef Safety: Reef-safe with caution; generally safe with corals but may consume small ornamental shrimp or crustaceans. Monitor in mixed reef tanks with tiny invertebrates.
Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; typically shy but may dominate other leopard wrasses or similar species over time. Avoid housing with aggressive fish or multiple leopard wrasses in smaller tanks to prevent harassment.
Description: The Kuiter’s Leopard Wrasse is a coveted treasure for hobbyists drawn to its exquisite beauty and intriguing behavior. Its vibrant orange-red body, speckled with bluish-white spots in females or a pale blue cross-hatched pattern in males, makes it a captivating focal point in any reef tank. Aquarists are enchanted by its active foraging, as it darts across live rock or sifts through a sandy substrate, bringing a dynamic energy to the aquarium. A 50-gallon tank with a deep sand bed and ample rockwork provides the perfect stage for its natural habits, while a diet rich in meaty foods keeps its colors vivid. Its striking appearance and engaging personality make it a rewarding addition for dedicated hobbyists seeking a standout fish.
Fun Facts
- The Kuiter’s Leopard Wrasse burrows into the sand to sleep or hide, a behavior that fascinates aquarists watching it “dive” at dusk.
- Females start with an orange-red body and white spots, while males develop a blue body with red patterns, showcasing dramatic sexual dimorphism.
- Its unique dentition, different from other leopard wrasses, helps it pluck tiny invertebrates from rockwork with precision.
