Dragon Wrasse

Dragon Wrasse

Novaculichthys taeniourus

Also known as: Rockmover Wrasse

🧂 Saltwater ⚡ Semi-aggressive 🟡 Moderate 🥩 Carnivore Not Reef Safe

Juveniles have dramatic flowing fins resembling seaweed. Adults are stocky and constantly flip rocks looking for food.

Tank Size

75 gal
minimum (100+ preferred)

Temperature

74–82°F
23–28°C

pH Range

8–8.4
water acidity

Max Size

12"
30.5 cm

Lifespan

10+ years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

Bottom
preferred zone

Care Notes

Will rearrange the entire aquascape by flipping rocks and rubble. Not reef-safe — will destroy aquascaping. Interesting but destructive.

Feeding

Frozen mysis, shrimp, clams, and other meaty foods.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Ocellaris Clownfish 3" True Percula Clownfish 3" Blue Green Chromis 3" Yellowtail Damselfish 2.5" Blue Tang 12" Yellow Tang 8" Kole Tang 7" Clarkii Clownfish 5" Tomato Clownfish 5" Scopas Tang 8" Naso Tang 18" Convict Tang 8"

Incompatible With

Maroon Clownfish 6" Blue Devil Damselfish 3" Powder Blue Tang 9" Achilles Tang 10" Purple Tang 10" Three Stripe Damselfish 3" Domino Damselfish 5" Springer's Damselfish 2" Four Stripe Damselfish 3" Jewel Damselfish 6" Clown Tang 15" Neon Goby 2"

Check Compatibility

Want to check if Dragon Wrasse is compatible with a specific fish? Use our compatibility checker to build your complete tank.