Divided Leopard Wrasse: Female (Macropharyngodon bipartitus (female))

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Maximum Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Divided Leopard Wrasse (Female)

The Divided Leopard Wrasse, also known as Macropharyngodon bipartitus (female), is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region. Here is a detailed guide to help you understand and care for this beautiful fish in your saltwater aquarium:

Habitat:

The Divided Leopard Wrasse is typically found in coral reefs and lagoons with sandy or rubble substrates. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots, such as crevices or small caves.

Reef Safe:

The Divided Leopard Wrasse is reef safe as it does not typically bother corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to a reef tank with small ornamental shrimps or other delicate invertebrates.

Size:

The maximum size of a female Divided Leopard Wrasse is around 3 inches, making it a suitable choice for smaller aquariums.

Temperament:

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. However, it may show aggression towards other wrasses or fish of similar body shape and coloration.

Sexual Dimorphism:

The female Divided Leopard Wrasse has a more subdued coloration than the male. Females have a white body with black spots and a yellowish tail.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of a Divided Leopard Wrasse is around 3-5 years, but with proper care, they can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums:

These wrasses are carnivorous and feed on small invertebrates, such as copepods, amphipods, and small crustaceans. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet of high-quality frozen and live foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

Provide plenty of live rock with crevices and caves for the Divided Leopard Wrasse to hide and explore. A sandy substrate is also preferred, as they partially bury themselves when resting or sleeping.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Divided Leopard Wrasse is rarely available as captive-bred specimens. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Divided Leopard Wrasse can generally coexist in a well-established aquarium with other peaceful fish species. However, as aggression may occur, caution should be exercised when keeping them with other wrasses or fish of similar body shape and coloration. They are considered safe for reef tanks but may occasionally nip at small ornamental shrimps or other delicate invertebrates.

5 Recommended Tankmates:

1. Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Peaceful and adds vibrant colors to the tank.
2. Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) – Peaceful and easy to care for.
3. Yellow Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus) – Peaceful and helps with sand sifting.
4. Pajama Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia nematoptera) – Peaceful and hardy.
5. Green Chromis (Chromis viridis) – Peaceful and forms schools, adding movement to the tank.

These tankmates are suitable choices because they have compatible temperaments and are unlikely to compete for food or territory with the Divided Leopard Wrasse.

Other Common Names:

The Divided Leopard Wrasse is also known as the Divided Wrasse, Two-part Wrasse, or the Bicolor Wrasse.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com:

Reefs4Less.com offers a wide selection of saltwater aquarium fish and invertebrates, including the Divided Leopard Wrasse. They provide high-quality specimens that are carefully sourced and shipped with care to ensure their health and well-being. With their expertise and excellent customer service, Reefs4Less.com is a trusted choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the ideal tank size for a female Divided Leopard Wrasse?

A: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a female Divided Leopard Wrasse.

Q: Can the Divided Leopard Wrasse be kept in a reef tank?

A: The Divided Leopard Wrasse is generally considered reef safe, but caution should be exercised when introducing them to tanks with small ornamental shrimps or delicate invertebrates.

Q: How long do Divided Leopard Wrasses typically live?

A: The average lifespan of a Divided Leopard Wrasse is around 3-5 years, but with proper care, they can live longer.

Q: What should I feed my Divided Leopard Wrasse in an aquarium?

A: In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen and live foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Q: Can the Divided Leopard Wrasse be kept with other fish?

A: Yes, the Divided Leopard Wrasse can coexist with other peaceful fish species in a well-established aquarium. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with other wrasses or fish of similar body shape and coloration.