Banner Wrasse Hemigymnus Melapterus

The Banner Wrasse is a large, colorful reef fish known for its striking black, white, and red coloration, with bold banding that stands out in any aquarium. Active and robust, it adds movement and vibrancy to larger marine tanks while foraging naturally on small invertebrates.

Native to the Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern Australia, Hemigymnus melapterus inhabits coral reefs and sandy slopes, where it searches for crustaceans, worms, and mollusks.

A carnivore that thrives on a diet of frozen mysis, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets. Feed 2–3 times daily to maintain health and coloration.

Semi-aggressive. Best kept with robust community species such as tangs, angels, and larger wrasses. Avoid very small or delicate fish and invertebrates, which may be eaten.

Semi-aggressive. Adults may show territorial behavior, particularly in confined spaces. Provide ample swimming space, live rock, and sandy substrate for foraging and burrowing.

Recommended for intermediate to advanced aquarists. Requires a large, mature aquarium (minimum 150 gallons) with stable water parameters.

• Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
• Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 SG
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH

Bold, active, and visually striking, the Banner Wrasse is an impressive centerpiece for larger marine aquariums, offering both color and natural pest-control behavior.