The Dragon Wrasse, also known as the Rockmover Wrasse, is famous for its extraordinary juvenile appearance, featuring elaborate leaf-like fin extensions and a erratic swimming motion that mimics drifting sea algae. As adults, they transform into formidable, mottled grey-and-black fish capable of flipping large pieces of rubble and rockwork in search of hidden invertebrates. They require a deep sand bed to sleep in, as well as firmly secured rock foundations so their constant rock-rearranging habits do not cause rockslides. They are ideal for large, rugged fish-only systems.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Scientific Name |
Novaculichthys taeniourus |
| Care Level |
Moderate |
| Max Size |
30 cm |
| Colour |
Greenish-brown with dark mottling and white tail bar (adults). |
| Shape |
Elongated, laterally compressed wrasse profile. |
| Location |
Indo-Pacific. |
| Diet |
Carnivore (Crustaceans, mollusks, urchins, mysis, chopped clams). |
| Water Temp |
24°C – 28°C. |
| Temperament |
Semi-aggressive. |
| Aquarium Size |
400+ Litres. |
| Reef Safe? |
No. |
, also known as the Rockmover Wrasse, is famous for its extraordinary juvenile appearance, featuring elaborate leaf-like fin extensions and a erratic swimming motion that mimics drifting sea algae. As adults, they transform into formidable, mottled grey-and-black fish capable of flipping large pieces of rubble and rockwork in search of hidden invertebrates. They require a deep sand bed to sleep in, as well as firmly secured rock foundations so their constant rock-rearranging habits do not cause rockslides. They are ideal for large, rugged fish-only systems.
| Feature |
Specification |
| Scientific Name |
Novaculichthys taeniourus |
| Care Level |
Moderate |
| Max Size |
30 cm |
| Colour |
Greenish-brown with dark mottling and white tail bar (adults). |
| Shape |
Elongated, laterally compressed wrasse profile. |
| Location |
Indo-Pacific. |
| Diet |
Carnivore (Crustaceans, mollusks, urchins, mysis, chopped clams). |
| Water Temp |
24°C – 28°C. |
| Temperament |
Semi-aggressive. |
| Aquarium Size |
400+ Litres. |
| Reef Safe? |
No. |