Species Description…

Scientific Name: Thalassoma lunare

Common Name: Moon Wrasse

Species Group: Wrasses

Habitat: Fish Only

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Aggressive

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Predator

Max Fish Length: 10 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 125 (gallons)

Native Range: Indo-Pacific

Thalassoma Lunare - The Moon Wrasse

Thalassoma Lunare (The Moon Wrasse)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky coastal regions.
Recognized for its stunning coloration, featuring a vibrant green body with blue and yellow highlights.
A highly active and fast-swimming species that requires ample space to thrive.
Exhibits a change in coloration and markings as it matures, with juveniles appearing different from adults.
Best suited for aquariums with plenty of open swimming areas, live rock, and strong water flow.

Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small invertebrates, crustaceans, and plankton in the wild.
Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, and high-quality marine pellets.
Readily accepts prepared foods but benefits from occasional live feedings to stimulate hunting behaviors.
Should be fed multiple times per day due to its high metabolism and energetic nature.
A varied diet ensures proper nutrition, boosts immune health, and maintains vibrant coloration.

Prefers reef-associated environments with rocky formations, sandy areas, and moderate to strong water movement.
Frequently seen patrolling coral reefs, actively searching for prey.
Aquarium setups should include a mix of open swimming areas and live rock structures for shelter.
Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration to accommodate its active lifestyle.
Providing a large, well-oxygenated environment supports natural swimming behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support metabolic function.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires frequent water changes and strong filtration to maintain pristine water quality.
Not entirely reef-safe, as it may prey on small invertebrates and crustaceans.
Providing a high-energy diet and an interactive environment helps maintain its health and behavior.

Generally semi-aggressive and should be housed with similarly sized, fast-moving fish.
Compatible with tangs, triggerfish, large angelfish, and other aggressive or semi-aggressive species.
Should not be housed with timid or slow-moving fish, as it may chase or harass them.
Best suited for large community aquariums with other robust species.
Providing plenty of space and structured territories minimizes aggression.

An extremely active and curious species that is constantly on the move.
Frequently observed darting between rock formations, chasing small prey, and investigating new surroundings.
More confident in a well-established aquarium with plenty of open swimming space.
Providing a structured tank with hiding spots and rockwork encourages natural behaviors.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and exhibit excitement during feeding times.