Radiant Wrasse EXPERT (Halichoeres Iridis)

Also Known As: Iridis Wrasse, Orangehead Wrasse

Compatibility and Behavior The Radiant Wrasse is a peaceful, methodical forager that moves through a well-aquascaped tank with a calm, purposeful energy — working over sand and rock during the day, then diving into the substrate at night or when startled. It generally fits well into community and reef systems, but it's not a fish that does well with boisterous or pushy tankmates; more assertive species tend to stress it out or outcompete it at feeding time. It's typically considered reef safe with corals, though small worms, pods, snails, and tiny crustaceans it encounters while foraging are fair game — so very small ornamental invertebrates may be at risk depending on the individual. A calm, thoughtfully stocked tank brings out the best in this species.

Live Arrival Guarantee: Because a deep sand bed is so critical to this species' wellbeing and survival, we're only able to guarantee Coris Wrasses for live arrival. Please make sure your setup is ready before ordering.

Aquarium Requirements A mature reef of at least 50 gallons with a soft, fine sand bed deep enough for the fish to bury itself completely is the foundation this species needs — and like other sand-sleeping wrasses, that substrate requirement isn't flexible. Without it, this fish is under chronic stress. Plenty of live rock with caves, arches, and broken lines of sight gives it shelter and natural foraging territory, and also helps buffer any tension with more assertive tankmates. Moderate flow suits it well. A tight-fitting lid or mesh cover is essential; this species can be a determined jumper, particularly during acclimation or when spooked. Feed a varied diet of mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped marine meats, and quality pellets — it will supplement these with whatever it finds on its own in a well-established system.

Specifications

Approximate Size: Sm/Md: 1.5–2.5", Lg: 2.5–3.5"

Diet: Carnivore; mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped marine meats, high-quality marine pellets

Origin: Western Indian Ocean, including coastal reefs around East Africa and nearby island systems

Care Level: Moderate to difficult; less forgiving than many Halichoeres wrasses — benefits from a mature system, careful acclimation, and gentle tankmates

Reef Safe: Generally yes; may prey on tiny crustaceans, snails, and worms while foraging

Temperament: Peaceful; best kept with non-aggressive species that won't outcompete it for food or harass it when it surfaces from the sand

Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons

Special Considerations: Fine sand bed required for burrowing — non-negotiable for this species; tight-fitting lid essential