China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse Also known as: China Wrasse, Black-backed Wrasse The China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse is a beautiful species featuring elegant pearl-like spotting with distinctive black dorsal coloration. This active, hardy wrasse is an excellent reef inhabitant and pest controller. With a peaceful temperament and stunning appearance, this species is highly sought after by aquarists. Key Features Scientific Name: Anampses neoguinaicus Common Names: China Pearl Wrasse, Black-backed Wrasse, New Guinea Wrasse Adult Size: Up to 5-6 inches Lifespan: 6-8 years with proper care Temperament: Peaceful Reef Compatibility: Reef safe Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons minimum Experience Level: Moderate Habitat & Tank Requirements Tank Environment: Provide established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploration. Create caves and overhangs for security. Requires 2-4 inches of fine sandy substrate as it buries itself at night. Active species need open swimming space. Prefers well-established systems with stable conditions. Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C) Salinity: 1.020-1.025 pH: 8.1-8.4 Good water quality important Equipment Recommendations: Quality protein skimmer Efficient filtration Moderate water circulation Tight-fitting lid (can jump) Diet & Feeding China Pearl Wrasses are carnivores with good appetites. Recommended foods include: Staples: High-quality marine pellets, marine flake food Frozen Foods: Vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood, krill Live Foods: Copepods, amphipods Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily Notes & Considerations Features beautiful pearl-like spotting with distinctive black dorsal stripe. Males and females show different coloration patterns. Active swimmer throughout the day; burrows in sand at night. Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or most invertebrates. Excellent at controlling various aquarium pests. Generally peaceful with other fish species. Can be territorial with conspecifics and similar-looking phrases. Should be added to peaceful community tanks. Requires adequate sand depth for burrowing behavior. May stay buried for the first few days after introduction (normal acclimation). Hardy once established in a proper environment. Sequential hermaphrodites; can change from female to male. Provide plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Secure lid essential; known jumpers when startled. More peaceful than some Anampses species. Why Choose a Quarantined China Pearl Black-backed Wrasse? Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this elegant and hardy species.
