Six Bar Wrasse (Hardwickii)
Six Bar Wrasse (Hardwicke) (Thalassoma hardwicke)
The Hardwicke Wrasse, also known as the Six bar Wrasse or Hardwick’s Wrasse, features a stunning pastel blue body adorned with six vertical dark stripes and a distinctive “daisy” pattern around its eyes, created by various pastel colors.
For optimal care, the Hardwicke Wrasse should be housed in a 90-gallon or larger aquarium, ideally with larger, aggressive tank mates and plenty of rocks for hiding. This species can become territorial and may harass new additions, so it is best to introduce it last. If your aquarium is 125 gallons or larger, you can keep a mate alongside it. The Hardwicke Wrasse may feed on mantis shrimp and bristleworms but will not harm corals or live plants.
In its natural habitat, the Hardwicke Wrasse feeds on fish, crustaceans, motile invertebrates, and worms. In captivity, its diet should consist of a variety of feeder shrimp, marine flesh, frozen meaty preparations designed for carnivores, and high-quality flaked foods.
**Approximate Purchase Size:**
– **Small:** 1″ to 3″
– **Medium:** 3″ to 4″
– **Large:** 4″ to 6″