Canary wrasse

The Canary Wrasse, also commonly known as the Yellow Coris Wrasse, is a brilliant yellow reef fish known for its active personality, peaceful nature and usefulness around the aquarium. Its intense yellow coloration makes it stand out beautifully against live rock and coral.

Canary Wrasses spend much of the day actively exploring the aquarium and hunting through rockwork for small crustaceans, worms and other tiny invertebrates. They are also known to pick at several common reef pests, making them a popular choice for established reef aquariums.

Despite the common name “Yellow Coris Wrasse,” this species actually belongs to the genus Halichoeres and is not a true Coris wrasse.

Canary Wrasses are generally reef safe with corals, although very small ornamental crustaceans may occasionally be at risk as the fish matures. They are typically peaceful toward unrelated fish and are one of the more community-friendly Halichoeres wrasses.

A fine sand bed is essential, as Canary Wrasses naturally bury themselves in the sand to sleep and when frightened. They are also excellent jumpers, so a securely covered aquarium is strongly recommended.

Feed a varied carnivorous diet consisting of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood and high-quality frozen or prepared marine foods.

Scientific Name: Halichoeres chrysus
Common Name: Canary Wrasse / Yellow Coris Wrasse
Maximum Size: Approximately 5”
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution around very small crustaceans
Diet: Carnivore
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Recommended Tank Size: 50+ gallons
Origin: Indo-Pacific

✨ Interesting Fact: Canary Wrasses don’t simply hide in the rocks at night—they dive directly into the sand and completely bury themselves to sleep. They may also disappear into the sand when stressed or first introduced, sometimes staying hidden for several days before emerging.