Green Birdmouth Wrasse

Green Birdmouth Wrasse: The Fast, Beaked Hunter

The Green Birdmouth Wrasse (Gomphosus caeruleus) is a large, vibrant, and extremely active wrasse species known for its distinctive, elongated, beak-like snout, which gives the genus the common name "Bird Wrasse." It is sometimes referred to as the Blue-Green Bird Wrasse or Indian Ocean Bird Wrasse, as it is native to the Indian Ocean.

This species exhibits strong sexual dimorphism (difference between sexes):

• Males (Terminal Phase): Are typically a large, solid, brilliant blue-green or emerald green color with a prominent beak.
• Females (Initial Phase): Are generally smaller with a darker body, often featuring a black back, a yellowish-white belly, and a dark stripe running through the eye.

Reaching a substantial size of up to 12 inches (32 cm), this wrasse is a constant, fast-moving daytime swimmer that requires a large amount of open water to thrive. Like other wrasses, it is a protogynous sequential hermaphrodite, meaning females can change sex to become males if the dominant male is removed.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Size: This is a large fish, reaching a maximum length of up to 12 inches (32 cm).
• Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 100 gallons is required, but a larger system of 150+ gallons is highly recommended due to its constant, frantic swimming activity.
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive and Boisterous. It is generally peaceful toward larger, equally active fish but is an aggressive predator toward small tankmates.
• Reef Compatibility: Not Invertebrate Safe. Its long snout and carnivorous diet mean it will actively hunt and consume ornamental shrimp, crabs, snails, and small clams (including Tridacna species). It uses its beak to probe rocks and corals, which can disturb the aquascape. It is generally safe with sessile corals but is considered unsuitable for a typical reef tank setup.
• Diet: Carnivore. It has a high metabolism and should be fed a varied, meaty diet several times daily. Foods should include vitamin-enriched frozen preparations like mysis shrimp, krill, chopped seafood (fish, clam, shrimp), and high-quality pellets.
• Tank Environment: The aquarium must have a tight-fitting lid, as Bird Wrasses are notorious jumpers. It requires a long tank with large, open swimming areas and secure rockwork for shelter when sleeping.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name:Gomphosus caeruleus
• Primary Common Name: Green Birdmouth Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Blue-Green Bird Wrasse, Indian Ocean Bird Wrasse, Birdfish
• Origin: Indian Ocean (East Africa to the Andaman Sea)
• Max Size: Up to 12 inches (32 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Predatory
• Diet: Carnivore (Crustaceans, mollusks, small fish)
• Minimum Tank Size: 100+ Gallons (Larger recommended)
• Reef Compatibility: No (Eats small invertebrates and can disturb the aquascape)