Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse

Coris julis

Identification	Slender wrasse with a brown-and-white body and a bright orange zigzag stripe along the side (terminal males). A temperate Mediterranean species.
Maximum Length	8 inches
Origin	Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic
Minimum Tank Size	55 gallons
Reef Compatibility	With caution — eats small inverts; prefers cooler water

Behavior

The Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse is an active, colorful temperate wrasse that constantly swims and forages, diving into the sand to sleep. As a cool-water species it does best in a temperate or subtropical system rather than a warm tropical reef.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. Feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. Offer mysis, chopped seafood, and pellets; feed daily.

Cautions

A temperate species — prefers cooler water (a chiller may be needed) and is not ideal for warm tropical reefs. Will eat small shrimp, snails, and worms. Active swimmer; provide sand to bury in and a secure lid.