The Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse (Anampses meleagrides)—also known as the Yellowtail Wrasse, Spotted Wrasse, or Yellowtail Tamarin—is a beautifully patterned but challenging species best suited for experienced marine aquarists due to its sensitivity during acclimation and feeding.

🐠 Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse Description:

• Scientific Name: Anampses meleagrides

• Common Names: Yellowtail Tamarin Wrasse, Spotted Wrasse, Yellowtail Wrasse, Psychedelic Wrasse (in some regions)

• Origin: Indo-Pacific (e.g., Fiji, Great Barrier Reef, Maldives)

• Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Coloration:

  • Males: Dark blue to black body with bright white or blue spots and a distinct yellow tail

  • Females/juveniles: More muted in color with scattered spots and a faded tail

• Temperament: Peaceful but shy

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with excellent care

🧪 Tank Requirements:

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons

• Water Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

• pH Level: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025

• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH

• Substrate: Fine sandbed (3+ inches) for burrowing and sleeping

• Aquascape: Live rock for grazing, caves for hiding, and open swimming space

🍤 Diet:

• Carnivorous, but very picky eater, especially at first:

  • Copepods and amphipods (natural prey)

  • Live foods (e.g., live brine shrimp, blackworms) to entice initial feeding

  • Enriched mysis and finely chopped seafood

  • May accept frozen foods once acclimated

Feed 3–4 times daily to ensure adequate nutrition, especially during early adaptation.

🤝 Compatibility:

• Reef Safe: Yes – does not harm corals; may eat small inverts like flatworms or micro crustaceans

• Tankmates:

  • Peaceful species only

  • Avoid aggressive or boisterous tankmates that may outcompete it for food

  • Best kept singly unless you have a large tank and experience with Anampses species

⚠️ Special Care Considerations:

• Difficult to acclimate: Often starves if it doesn’t accept prepared food quickly

• Requires pristine water quality – sensitive to fluctuations

• Will burrow into the sand when stressed or sleeping – sandbed is non-negotiable

• Known jumper – tight-fitting lid required

• Quarantine is risky due to their delicate nature, but watch for parasites (like flukes) if skipping it

📝 Summary: