Barber Perch
NameBarber Perch
Scientific NameSemicossyphus pulcher
Common NamesCalifornia Sheephead, Sheephead Wrasse
FamilyLabridae
OriginEastern Pacific Ocean, California Coast, Baja California
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)36
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)50-72
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesOther large wrasses, Groupers, Moray eels, Larger angelfish, Triggerfish
Description
The Barber Perch, also known as the California Sheephead, is a large, temperate wrasse native to the Eastern Pacific. Juveniles and females, like the one pictured, typically display a reddish-pink to yellow body with distinctive black blotches on the side and caudal peduncle, often with a blue hue on the head and dorsal area. These fish are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting as females and later transitioning into larger, more colorful males.
