Whitebelly Wrasse – Halichoeres leucoxanthus

The Whitebelly Wrasse (Halichoeres leucoxanthus) is very similar to and often incorrectly imported as the Canary Wrasse (H. chrysus). This fish shares the same intense yellow coloration, but the ventral region (underside) of this species is white as opposed to the solid yellow of the Canary Wrasse. These fish have similar behaviors and needs as the Canary Wrasse too, so they’ll be looking for a meaty diet and benefit from a reef setting.

Wrasses from the Halichoeres and Thalassoma genera are some of the most active in the wrasse group. Most are narrow and torpedo-shaped. While Thalassoma wrasses are often in the upper to mid-water ranges of the aquarium, Halichoeres wrasses are often closer to the substrate or rockwork, especially when young. They also bury themselves in the substrate when resting or threatened. Because of this behavior, Halichoeres wrasses are often confused with some Coris wrasses. Thalassoma wrasses are also sometimes known as \