About Psychedelic Wrasse
Hawaiian-endemic wrasse with intricate red-and-white patterning — a high-value display fish. Like other Anampses, it benefits from a deep sand bed for sleeping and an established system with a healthy copepod population.
Anampses chrysocephalus, also known as red tail wrasse and psychedelic wrasse, is a small, reef-associated fish in the family Labridae endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.
Notes from the editors
What it looks like. Hawaiian-endemic wrasse. Males develop a striking red head with iridescent white spots over a dark body; females are reddish-brown with scattered white spots. A high-value display fish.
In your tank. Active mid-water swimmer. Like other Anampses, depends on a deep sand bed (3+ inches) for nightly burrowing — this isn't optional. Skittish for the first weeks; mature into more confident swimmers.
Care notes. Establish the system with a healthy copepod population before introducing. Many specimens are lost in the first month due to feeding refusal — pre-conditioned wild specimens from reputable suppliers (or rare captive-bred) dramatically improve survival. Pairs with female-only specimens since males are rarely available.
Sourcing and feeding. Hawaiian endemic; wild collection is now limited following Hawaii's aquarium trade restrictions. Premium-priced ($150–400+). Carnivore — small frozen and live foods, multiple feedings per day.
Care info is a starting point, not a guarantee. Individual specimens, water chemistry, and tankmate dynamics vary. Verify against multiple sources and adjust to what you observe. See our terms & disclaimers.
Related fish
Sources & attribution
- Taxonomy and accepted name from the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS AphiaID 279168).
- Description content adapted from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Photo: Ludwig Jerry, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service · PUBLIC DOMAIN (via iNaturalist or Wikimedia Commons).