Solarfin Wrasse

Thalassoma Septemfasciatum
Solarfin Wrasse - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Thalassoma Septemfasciatum
Other names Sevenband Wrasse, Seven Banded Wrasse
Size Up to 31 cm (12.2 in)
Weight Up to 1.25 kg (2.75 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Shallower coastal waters amongst weedy rocks & reefs
Depth Range 1 - 40 m (131 ft)
Solarfin Wrasse Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Solarfin Wrasse is endemic to the waters of Western Australia, particularly in the temperate and tropical zones.
  • The body of the Solarfin Wrasse is elongated and cylindrical in shape, with a pointed snout and a single dorsal fin. The coloration of this species is striking, with seven horizontal bands of bright yellow and blue-green running along the length of the body.
  • The Solarfin Wrasse is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day and rests at night.
  • They are a carnivorous species, feeding on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and molluscs.
  • The Solarfin Wrasse is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning it is born as a female and later changes to a male.
  • Spawning typically occurs during the summer months, with females releasing eggs that are fertilised externally by males. The eggs hatch into larvae, which are pelagic and drift with ocean currents before settling on the ocean floor.
  • Like other wrasses, the Solarfin Wrasse has a complex social structure, with individuals often forming large aggregations.
  • The estimated lifespan is between 5 – 7 years in the wild.
Species Interaction

Aquarium, Snorkeling & Diving

Solarfin Wrasse can be a rewarding and beautiful addition to a marine aquarium, but they require specialised care and should only be kept by experienced aquarists who can meet their specific needs. Out on the reef in their natural environment, They are known to be curious and may approach divers or snorkelers, making for a more interactive and engaging experience.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Genus: Thalassoma

Species: Thalassoma Septemfasciatum

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Solarfin Wrasse in Australia is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that there is no significant threat to the overall population of this species in Australia at the moment.

Solarfin Wrasse
As Aquarium Fish

Care Level: Moderate to difficult

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Diet: Carnivore

Reef Compatible: Yes

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

Recreational Viewing
- Snorkeling & Scuba

Finding: Easy

Temperament: Peaceful

Location: Inner Reef, Outer Reef, Lagoon

Danger: None