Anampses geographicus – Geographic Wrasse
Anampses geographicus was first described by Achille Valenciennes in 1840. This fish belongs to the family Labridae, which are known as the wrasses.
The genus name “Anampses” is derived from Greek words that describe the morphological characteristics of the fish within this group, particularly the broad, tooth-like incisors located at the front of their jaws. The species name “geographicus” highlights the extensive distribution of these fish, which spans a significant portion of the Indo-Pacific region. This is why they are commonly known as the Geographical Wrasse.
Synonyms: Anampses lienardi and Anampses pterophthalmus.
Description
General Description of Appearance
Anampses geographicus has an elongated and laterally flattened body. The fish can reach a maximum length of 31 centimeters. The head and flanks are dark reddish brown, with blue lines and markings that are more pronounced in males. The fins are reddish brown with blue dots and lines, and the caudal fin is rounded in juveniles, while it is straight in adults.
Differences between males and females
There are distinct physical differences between males and females. Males are often larger and have more pronounced colors and patterns than females. Males often show more blue lines on their bodies. Behaviorally, males are often more dominant and can be territorial, especially during the mating season. Juveniles have less pronounced colors and patterns than adults and have large ocelli (eye spots) on the tips of the dorsal and anal fins. The color differences are also related to sex changes, as this species is protogenic hermaphrodites, meaning that females can change sex to males.
Behavior and Temperament
Anampses geographicus is typically a peaceful fish, although it can exhibit aggression towards others of the same sex. They usually form small groups consisting of one dominant male and several females. These fish are shy and tend to hide within the reef, where they primarily feed on small invertebrates. As bottom dwellers, they often swim close to the reef.
Life expectancy
Life expectancy in the wild is not specifically documented, but they can live for several years depending on conditions. In a well-maintained aquarium, they can also live for several years, provided they are given the right care and nutrition.
Protogenic Hermaphrodism in Anampses geographicus
The Geographical Wrasse is a protandrous hermaphrodite, meaning that individuals begin their lives as females and can change to males if necessary. This phenomenon is common among fish species that live in social groups, where having a dominant male is crucial for reproduction. When the dominant male is removed from the group, whether due to predation or other reasons, the largest and most dominant female can take his place by changing sex.
The process of changing sex in certain species is an adaptive strategy that enhances their reproductive success. It enables the group to respond swiftly to shifts in social structure without having to wait for a new male to arrive. This sex change is often accompanied by changes in color and behavior; the new male typically exhibits more vibrant colors and dominant behavior.
Biotope
Anampses geographicus is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region. This species of fish is found in a variety of ecosystems, including the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and specifically in areas such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Ryukyu Islands, and the coastal waters of Australia, Indonesia, and Fiji.
These fish primarily inhabit coral reefs and are often found in shallow, sheltered waters. Their natural habitat consists of areas with abundant coral and rocks, which provide them with protection from predators and a rich source of food.
The substrate of their habitat is typically sand, which plays a crucial role in their behavior. They burrow into the sand to rest or hide when they feel threatened. This burrowing behavior is a crucial component of their survival strategy in the wild.
Diet
Diet in the Wild
In their natural habitat, Anampses geographicus primarily feeds on benthic macroinvertebrates, with a particular preference for crustaceans. They hunt small invertebrates found in the sandy bottoms and among the rocks of coral reefs. Their diet includes amphipods, copepods, krill, mysis, shrimp, and other small crustaceans.
Food in the Aquarium
In an aquarium setting, it is crucial to provide a diet that closely resembles the fish’s natural food sources. It is recommended to feed them larger crustaceans, such as shrimp and crabs, as well as smaller options like krill, mysis, and brine shrimp. Offering live foods can help fish acclimate more successfully to the aquarium. Additionally, it is beneficial to feed the fish frequently, especially when they are new to the environment.
What Not to Feed
It is important to avoid offering foods that are not aligned with their natural diet, such as plant-based foods or items that are too large for easy consumption. Additionally, steer clear of foods that are not fresh or unsuitable for carnivores, as these can lead to health issues.
Reef Safe?
Anampses geographicus is considered reef safe with caution. While they do not eat coral or polyps, they can pose a threat to small invertebrates such as shrimp and crabs. Larger ornamental invertebrates such as starfish and cucumbers are usually left alone, but smaller ornamental shrimp can be too tempting for the fish to resist. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when introducing this fish to a reef tank with small invertebrates.
The Aquarium for Anampses geographicus
Aquarium Size and Setup
To keep a Geographical Wrasse, an aquarium of at least 700 liters is recommended. If you plan to maintain multiple pairs, a significantly larger aquarium, preferably at least 2000 liters, is necessary. The aquarium should be equipped with ample rocks and coral structures to provide hiding places and mimic their natural environment. Additionally, the substrate should consist of a thick layer of sand, at least 5 cm deep, allowing the fish to bury themselves when they feel threatened or wish to rest.
Water parameters
The ideal water conditions for Anampses geographicus in the aquarium are a temperature range of 22°C to 27°C, with a stable pH value of 8.1 to 8.4. It is essential that the water is well-filtered and aerated to ensure the health of the fish.
Introduction to the Aquarium
This species should not be introduced immediately after starting the aquarium. It is essential that the aquarium is well matured, so that sufficient algae and micro-organisms have grown to serve as a natural food source. This helps the fish to adapt better to the new environment.
Compatibility with Other Residents
Anampses geographicus can coexist with peaceful fish species such as dwarf emperors, anthias, blennies, and cardinalfish. It is important to avoid aggressive or very active fish such as large emperors, triggerfish, and some dwarf groupers, as these may intimidate or disturb the wrasses. It is also important to ensure that no other male Anampses geographicus are kept in the same tank, to prevent territorial conflicts.
Breeding in the Aquarium
There are no known documented cases of successful breeding of Anampses geographicus in a standard home aquarium.
Special features of Anampses geographicus
Anampses geographicus, also known as the Geographic Wrasse, has some interesting features and peculiarities that go beyond the basic information about their appearance, behavior and habitat.
Taxonomic Complexity:
The taxonomy of the Anampses geographicus is complex and has led to some confusion in the scientific community. This is partly due to the variation in color patterns exhibited by these fish, which depends on their age and sex. Historically, several synonyms and classifications have been used, including Anampses pterophthalmus, which is now considered a synonym.
Color Variations and Sexual Dimorphism:
Anampses geographicus exhibits considerable color variation, not only between males and females, but also between juveniles and adults. These variations are so pronounced that they once led to the identification of several putative species within the same genus.
Behavior and Ecology:
This species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning that the largest and most dominant females can change sex to males when social structure requires it. This behavior is an adaptive strategy that helps maintain a stable social structure within their groups.
Habitat and Distribution:
Anampses geographicus occurs in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, with a range extending from Mauritius to Fiji, and from the Ryukyu Islands to Western Australia and the Great Barrier Reef. They are often found in shallow coral reefs, but can also occur in algae-rich habitats.
Diet and Food Preferences:
In the wild they feed primarily on benthic macroinvertebrates, such as crustaceans. This diet is essential for their survival and well-being, both in the wild and in captivity.
Aquarium Challenges:
Successfully keeping Anampses geographicus in an aquarium requires careful attention to their diet and habitat. They are sensitive to transportation and acclimation, and it is important to have a well-established aquarium with ample natural food sources.
These details provide a deeper insight into the complexity and unique characteristics of Anampses geographicus, making them a fascinating subject for scientists and aquarium enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Anampses geographicus, or Geographic Wrasse, is a fascinating species that requires some experience to maintain in an aquarium successfully. These fish are sensitive to transportation and acclimation and require a well-established aquarium with a thick sandy substrate to burrow into. They are generally peaceful, but can be aggressive towards members of the same sex.
Although they are considered reef-safe, they can pose a threat to small invertebrates, such as shrimp. It is important to provide them with a diet rich in crustaceans and to feed them several times a day, especially when they are new to the aquarium. With the right care and attention, they can be a wonderful addition to a well-maintained reef aquarium.
Author
John de Lange
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