Yellowtail Wrasse EXPERT (Anampses Meleagrides)

Also Known As: Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse

Compatibility, Behavior, and Environment
The Yellowtail Wrasse is a rare, highly-prized species from Africa. Its breathtaking coloration can’t be missed as it darts in and out of rockwork and burrows in the sand. In appropriately sized systems it is often peaceful toward other non-aggressive fish, but it can become stressed or outcompeted in tanks with boisterous or bullying tank mates, so it is generally best suited to calm, community-style reef aquariums. This species is typically considered reef safe with corals and most sessile invertebrates, but it will naturally graze on small organisms in the sand and rock. Because Yellowtail Wrasses can be delicate shippers and often rely heavily on live microinvertebrates, they are usually recommended for expert aquarists with very established systems.

Aquarium Requirements
The Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse thrives in a mature aquarium with abundant live rock, rich microfauna, and a soft sandbed for burrowing. A deep, clean sand layer of at least a 3 inches is crucial for their survival, as this fish routinely dives into the substrate at night or when startled, and a lack of suitable sand can lead to chronic stress. 

A minimum tank size in the 90–125 gallon range is often suggested for adults (Small Yellowtails can do fine in 50 gallons, but will need more space as they grow), providing both open swimming room and multiple rock structures for grazing and shelter. A tight-fitting lid or mesh cover is essential, since this genus is prone to jumping when spooked, and flow and filtration should be robust to handle the frequent small feedings this active wrasse requires. Feeding should center on frequent offerings of small, meaty foods—such as enriched mysis, finely chopped marine meats, live or frozen pods, and other tiny crustaceans—to supplement the natural hunting it does in a well-established reef.

Specifications

• Approximate Size: Sm: 1.5-2", Md: 2-3", Lg: 3-4"

• Diet: Carnivore; microcrustaceans, pods, and other small invertebrates, plus frozen mysis shrimp and live baby brine shrimp

• Origin: Indo-Pacific, including reef slopes and sandy margins

• Care Level: Expert only (requires mature tank, deep sand, and frequent feeding)

• Reef Safe: Yes, generally reef safe with corals; may reduce populations of small sand- and rock-dwelling microfauna

• Temperament: Peaceful to moderately shy; best with non-aggressive tank mates in a calm community