Polack's Pencil Wrasse

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Southwestern Indian Ocean, distributed along the coasts of South Africa and Mozambique. Inhabits rocky reefs and sediment-rich areas.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Labridae family, genus Pseudojuloides. Reaches 12 cm (4.7 inches). Elongated, slender cylindrical body, typical of the pencil wrasses.

Social Behavior: Calm and timid swimmer. Diurnal, buries itself completely in fine sand at night to rest or seek shelter. Active in searching live food.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Males have a metallic green-blue body, a black horizontal line along the sides, and a yellow-orange back. Females are pinkish-gray. Strong dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 250 liters with a deep sand bed (at least 5-8 cm / 2-3 inches of fine sand). A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous. Feeds on small crustaceans and plancton. Offer live or frozen copepods, mysis, brine shrimp, and small benthic invertebrates.

Water Quality: Stable temperature 22°C - 26°C, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, KH 8-12, GH 15-25. Crystal clear, highly oxygenated water.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Peaceful with most fish. Suitable for aquariums with docile tankmates. Not compatible with tiny ornamental reef shrimp.

Aquarium Breeding: Protogynous hermaphrodite. The dominant females transition into colorful males. Reproduction has not been documented in captivity.

Risks and Diseases: Highly sensitive to shipping and acclimation stress. Prone to starvation in the first weeks if not supplied with live foods.