Scientific Name & Identification: Coris flavovittata (Bennett, 1829).
Juveniles are primarily black with several white and pink stripes. In the subadult phase of life the black diminishes, and the white and pink stripes become more predominant. Adult females have a pinkish body with black and white stripes at the top (dorsal) area of the body. Males turn a dirty blue color, have high first dorsal spines, and dark blue and black spots on the operculum (gill cover). >> View Phases of Life Picture Gallery
Other Common Names: Black & White Stiped Wrasse, Black Striped Wrasse, Black & White Coris, and Yellowstripe Coris.
Distribution: Endemic to the Hawaiian Island region, which includes islands such as Midway, and Johnston Atoll.
Average Size: To 20 inches.
Characteristics & Compatibility: Being a member of the Wrasse family, this fish buries in the sand at night, and for protection when freightened or harassed. Because this fish grows to a large size it may cause rock formations to become dislodged, and other items in the aquarium to be moved around. Not overly aggressive towards other tankmates, but larger individuals may harass smaller fish. The mouth has two strong, prominent teeth in the front of each jaw that are used for catching and breaking open prey.
Diet & Feeding: Requires a hardy diet of meaty fares. Can be fed fresh and frozen shrimp, scallops, and other seafoods, live brine, mysid, grass or ghost shrimps, live black worms, frozen preparations for carnivores, and even flake food. Recommended Feedings - 3 times a day.
Habitat: Provide with plenty of swimming room, and a soft sand bed substrate.
Suggested Minimum Tank Size: Juveniles and subadults - 100 gallons | Adults - 150 gallons.
Reef Tank Suitability: Poor. A carnivorous predator that feeds on snails, mollusks, hermit crabs, crabs, shrimps, and sea urchins. May pick at tube worms, clams, and other sessile invertebrates. Larger specimens are good at turning over pieces of live rock and coral in search of food.
Guide Fish Care Rating: 2 Stars
