Black Patch Pencil Wrasse: Female

Pseudojuloides mesostigma. The Pencil Wrasse is a very unique and slightly rare wrasse. Pencil Wrasses reach a maximum adult size of around 5 inches and need to be kept in tanks that are at least 75 gallons. Pencil Wrasses are extremely strong jumpers and need to be kept in tanks with tight fitting lids, so they don't jump out when spooked. Pencil Wrasses are mostly peaceful and shouldn't bother other fish, coral and inverts in your tank. Male Pencil Wrasses will be aggressive towards other males and should only be kept in either all female groups or one or more females with one male. Pencil Wrasses do best in tanks with lots of live rock and sand. Pencil Wrasses will spend their days picking at the rockwork for small inverts between feedings. Pencil Wrasses might also like to burrow in the sand at night, with a lack of a sanded, the Pencil Wrasse will not live a very long life. Pencil Wrasses are carnivores and require a diet that is rich in meaty foods. Foods like mysis and brine shimp, high quality meaty frozen foods and high quality pellet and flake foods will keep your Pencil Wrasse healthy and happy.