HARLEQUIN TUSKFISH AUSSIE (CHOERODON FASCIATUS)

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Semi-aggressive

Color : Blue, Orange

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 10"

Origin : Australia

Family : Labridae

Minimum Tank Size : 125 gallons

The Harlequin Tuskfish (Choerodon Fasciatus), is a species of wrasse native to the western Pacific Ocean. Harlequin Tuskfish get their common name from their harlequin-like colors and large, protruding teeth. 

The Harlequin Tusk Wrasse grows up to 10 inches. It is a brightly colored marine fish with shades of blue, green, and orange. Indian Ocean Tusks have orange stripes with white margins and a hint of blue adjacent to the tail of the fish. Australian Tusks have orange stripes with vivid blue margins starting from the pectoral fin, along the fishes back to their tail. Both of these beautiful color forms have bright blue teeth or tusks used to crunch invertebrates. These fish are typically shy when at a small size, but will in time gain personality and confidence as they mature. Despite their large, fierce-looking teeth, they are mellow with almost comical behaviors, making them an excellent choice to add to any fish-only tank.

Although able to hold its own, this fish is shy and requires plenty of hiding spaces to feel secure. A Harlequin Tusk will do well in a 125 gallon or larger tank with plenty of live rock for hiding. 

It is a semi-aggressive fish and ideal tankmates would include angels, tangs, and small triggerfish. However, it will not tolerate its own kind, so there should be only one specimen per tank. They are not reef-safe. Although they will typically not nip at corals or sessile invertebrates, they will attack and consume crabs, hermit crabs, snails, and shrimp. 

Lienardella Fasciata will thrive on a diet that is well varied. The bulk of the diet should consist of frozen foods. The diet should include vitamin-fortified frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin-fortified frozen brine shrimp and other meat products, and high-quality sea flakes and marine pellets.

Size: Juvenile Medium: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"; Small: 2-1/2" to 3-1/2"; Medium: 3-1/2" to 4-1/4"; Medium/Large: 4-1/4" to 5" Large: 5" to 6"; XLarge: 6" to 7"; XXLarge: 7" to 9"