Image 1 of 1
Novaculicthys Taeniourus - Dragon Wrasse
The Dragon Wrasse, also known as the Rockmover Wrasse, is one of the most fascinating species for the specialized marine aquarium. In its juvenile stage, it displays a cryptic, leafy appearance with elongated dorsal spines that mimic drifting seaweed—a perfect example of natural camouflage. As it matures into its adult form, it transforms into a sleek, formidable predator with a sophisticated grey and black mottled pattern.
This species is a master of the "Answering Machine" era of reef-keeping knowledge, known specifically for its high intelligence and unique behavior of flipping over rocks and coral rubble in search of prey. Because of its active nature and impressive adult size, it requires a spacious environment with a deep sand bed and plenty of loose rockwork.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Aggressive
Minimum Tank Size: 100 Gallons
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: No (Will eat invertebrates and move small corals)
Max Size: 12 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025
Husbandry Notes The Dragon Wrasse is an expert-level "rockmover." It is highly recommended for fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) systems rather than delicate reef tanks, as its natural instinct to overturn décor can disrupt coral placement. Provide a varied diet of meaty foods including mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood. A thick sand bed (3-4 inches) is essential, as this species will bury itself at night or when it feels threatened. Ensure the tank is tightly covered, as they are powerful jumpers.
Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.
The Dragon Wrasse, also known as the Rockmover Wrasse, is one of the most fascinating species for the specialized marine aquarium. In its juvenile stage, it displays a cryptic, leafy appearance with elongated dorsal spines that mimic drifting seaweed—a perfect example of natural camouflage. As it matures into its adult form, it transforms into a sleek, formidable predator with a sophisticated grey and black mottled pattern.
This species is a master of the "Answering Machine" era of reef-keeping knowledge, known specifically for its high intelligence and unique behavior of flipping over rocks and coral rubble in search of prey. Because of its active nature and impressive adult size, it requires a spacious environment with a deep sand bed and plenty of loose rockwork.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Aggressive
Minimum Tank Size: 100 Gallons
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: No (Will eat invertebrates and move small corals)
Max Size: 12 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025
Husbandry Notes The Dragon Wrasse is an expert-level "rockmover." It is highly recommended for fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) systems rather than delicate reef tanks, as its natural instinct to overturn décor can disrupt coral placement. Provide a varied diet of meaty foods including mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood. A thick sand bed (3-4 inches) is essential, as this species will bury itself at night or when it feels threatened. Ensure the tank is tightly covered, as they are powerful jumpers.
Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.
