Wrasse (Cleaner)
Image: Rickard Zerpe (CC BY 2.0)
NameWrasse (Cleaner)
Scientific NameLabroides dimidiatus
Common NamesBluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, Cleaner Wrasse, Common Cleaner Wrasse, Bridled Cleaner Wrasse
FamilyLabridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Pacific Islands
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)4.5
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Gobies, Peaceful Damselfish
Description
The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is a small, vibrant marine fish known for its distinctive blue and black stripe along its body. It performs a crucial symbiotic role in coral reef ecosystems by setting up 'cleaning stations' where it removes parasites and dead tissue from other, often much larger, fish. Due to its highly specialized diet and behavior, it is considered an advanced to expert-level fish for aquarists.
