Description
Kuiter’s Wrasse (Macropharyngodon kuiteri)
Overview
The Kuiter’s Wrasse, also known as the Yellow-Spotted Leopard Wrasse, is a stunning and peaceful reef-safe species featuring a beautifully detailed pattern of yellow spots and blue-green highlights across its body. Graceful and constantly active, this wrasse adds elegance and vibrant color to mature reef aquariums while helping control small invertebrate pests.
Origin
Endemic to Australia, particularly along the Great Barrier Reef and New South Wales coast, Macropharyngodon kuiteri inhabits coral rubble zones and sandy reef slopes, foraging for small crustaceans and worms.
Feeding
A carnivore that thrives on a varied diet of frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and quality marine pellets. Feed 2–3 times daily. A mature aquarium with live rock provides natural microfauna for grazing.
Tank Mates
Peaceful and reef-safe with most species. Ideal tank mates include tangs, gobies, fairy wrasses, and anthias. Avoid aggressive or boisterous fish that may outcompete it for food.
Aggression
Very peaceful. Rarely shows aggression and prefers calm, established reef environments with plenty of rockwork and a sand bed for burrowing.
Experience Level
Recommended for intermediate to advanced aquarists. Requires a mature, stable system with live rock, natural microfauna, and excellent water quality.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
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Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 SG
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pH: 8.1 – 8.4
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Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
Delicate, beautiful, and reef-safe, the Kuiter’s Wrasse is a prized addition for experienced aquarists seeking a rare and visually captivating species from Australian waters.
