![Macropharyngodon ornatus](/uploads/4/8/1/0/4810798/published/m-ornatus.jpg?1598610640)
BUT!!
I have had the option of a couple of fish recently. One was a beautiful wrasse but the owner wasn't sure what it was. I was able to identify it as a stunning example of a Diamond Wrasse, or Blue spotted wrasse, Anampses caeruleopunctatus. These can grow to 30cms! So not for me.
![Picture](/uploads/4/8/1/0/4810798/published/ornate-wrasse-2.jpg?250)
BUT!!
I have been offered an ornate wrasse by someone who knows I am on the lookout for one. I asked for the scientific name but he didn't know what it was.
![Picture](/uploads/4/8/1/0/4810798/published/ornate-wrasse.jpg?250)
I also did a quick search for ornate wrasse and came up with three beauties. The M. ornatus that I am looking for, a beautiful Halichoeres ornatissimus and a third, Thalassoma pavo.
Confusing. I had always referred to the H. ornatissimus as a Christmas wrasse. A real stunner but maybe not a good idea with my existing Halichoeres wrasse. As for the T pavo, wow what an absolute beauty, would love one but at over 20cms when full grown not for my little reef.
After further discussion it was the T pavo that was on offer. she was eating the other aquarist clean up crew. What a surprise! Another lesson in knowing the scientific names of the fish you are thinking about introducing into your aquarium.