The Tripletail Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus trilobatum) is a large species of wrasse that is native to the Indo-West Pacific Ocean. They exhibit a unique tail that has 3 points, hence the name tripe tailed wrasse. They have a olive green/brown body with pink spots on their head and blue green and pink stripes going down their body. Juveniles are a darker color with 3 spots running down the middle of their sides. Growing up to 18 inches these wrasse require a tank size of 200 gallons minimum. This species is known to eat crustaceans, shrimp, krill, and frozen thawed pieces of fish and squid. They are not reef safe as they can overturn corals looking for food and harm invertebrates in the tank. Being active swimmers it is best to give them lots of space to swim and lots of rock work to hide in and feel comfortable in the tank. Do not house them with smaller species of wrasse as they may become aggressive and territorial with them. 

Tripletail Maori Wrasse Care Guide For Saltwater Aquariums

The Tripletail Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus trilobatum), also known as the Triple-Tail Maori Wrasse or Trilobate Maori Wrasse, is a fascinating addition to saltwater marine aquariums, prized for its vibrant colors and exciting behaviors. This educational and formal product description provides comprehensive information for hobbyists interested in keeping this species.

Overview of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

The Tripletail Maori Wrasse is a beautiful fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in coral reefs and rocky areas. It belongs to the Labridae family and is known for its distinctive three-lobed tail fin, from which its name is derived. Aquarium enthusiasts highly seek this species for its striking appearance and active nature.

Habitat of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

In the wild, Tripletail Maori Wrasses inhabit tropical coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots and crevices. They prefer warm waters with stable conditions and moderate to strong water flow.

Reef Compatibility of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

While considered coral-safe, caution should be exercised when keeping Tripletail Maori Wrasses with small invertebrates and crustaceans, as they may prey on them.

Size and Lifespan of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Tripletail Maori Wrasses can grow up to 18 inches (30 centimeters) in captivity. They can live for 10 to 15 years with proper care, making them a long-term commitment for hobbyists.

Diet of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse in Captivity

In captivity, Tripletail Maori Wrasses should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine-based flakes, pellets, frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and occasional live foods like small crustaceans. Providing a diverse diet helps maintain their health and vibrant colors.

Aquaculture and Availability of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Tripletail Maori Wrasses are not commonly aquacultured but are occasionally available to hobbyists through reputable suppliers. Due to their popularity and limited availability, they may be more challenging to find compared to some other marine fish species.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates for the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Tripletail Maori Wrasses generally get along well with other peaceful fish species in a large enough tank with plenty of hiding places. Compatible tank mates may include:

• Triggerfish (e.g., Picasso Triggerfish)
• Hawkfish (e.g., Flame Hawkfish)
• Moray Eels (e.g., Snowflake Moray Eel)
• Large Angelfish (e.g., Emperor Angelfish)
• Groupers (e.g., Panther Grouper)

Sexual Dimorphism of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Sexual dimorphism in Tripletail Maori Wrasses is not readily apparent, as males and females exhibit similar external characteristics.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes in the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Juvenile Tripletail Maori Wrasses display more subdued colors compared to adults. Their colors become more vibrant as they mature, with blue, green, and yellow hues accentuating their body and fins.

Temperament of the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

Tripletail Maori Wrasses are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially towards similar species or when crowded in smaller tanks. Providing adequate space and hiding spots can help mitigate aggression.

Tank Requirements for the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

For optimal health and well-being, Tripletail Maori Wrasses require a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 200 gallons (approximately 284 liters). The tank should have plenty of live rock formations, caves, and crevices to mimic their natural habitat. Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial, with the following recommended conditions:

• pH: 8.1 - 8.4
• Salinity: 1.023 - 1.025
• Water Temperature: 75°F - 82°F (24°C - 28°C)
• Water Flow: Moderate to Strong

Why Choose Saltwaterfish.com for the Tripletail Maori Wrasse

When purchasing a Tripletail Maori Wrasse for your saltwater aquarium, sourcing from Saltwaterfish.com ensures quality and reliability. With their commitment to providing healthy and responsibly sourced marine fish, Saltwaterfish.com offers hobbyists peace of mind. Their experienced team ensures proper handling and shipping procedures, reducing stress on the fish during transportation. Additionally, Saltwaterfish.com provides excellent customer support and resources to assist hobbyists in caring for their aquatic pets.

In conclusion, the Tripletail Maori Wrasse is an attractive and engaging species suitable for saltwater marine aquariums. Its stunning colors, active nature, and relatively peaceful temperament add vibrancy and life to any tank. By following proper care guidelines and sourcing from reputable suppliers like Saltwaterfish.com, hobbyists can enjoy the beauty of this remarkable fish for years to come.