Cleaner Wrasse Fish

AWYSIWYG – Approx. Size: 1.5-3 Inches

Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)

The Blue Streak Cleaner Wrasse is a slender, active reef fish renowned for its striking appearance and symbiotic cleaning behavior. It features a long, torpedo-shaped body with a bold black stripe running from snout to tail, bordered by iridescent blue above and white or pale blue below. Its graceful swimming and constant interaction with other fish make it a captivating presence in the aquarium.

Tank Requirements

Cleaner Wrasses do best in aquariums of 55 gallons or more, with plenty of swimming space and numerous fish hostsfor them to interact with. A well-established tank with stable parameters and abundant rockwork helps mimic their natural reef environment. While not jumpers by nature, a tight-fitting lid is always a wise precaution.

Natural Cleaners

In the wild, Blue Streak Cleaner Wrasses perform an essential ecological role by removing parasites, dead tissue, and mucus from other fish. In aquariums, they often continue this behavior, setting up "cleaning stations" and forming beneficial relationships with tankmates. Their constant motion and interactions make them both functional and fascinating to observe.

Diet and Feeding

These wrasses have a specialized diet in the wild, which can make long-term care challenging. They primarily feed on parasites and skin debris, and may initially reject prepared foods. For best success, offer a variety of high-protein frozen foods such as mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and specialized wrasse diets. Frequent, small feedings and a mature tank with plenty of fish hosts increase their chances of thriving in captivity.

Tankmates and Behavior

Blue Streak Cleaner Wrasses are peaceful and social, often seen approaching larger fish to perform cleaning. They are generally reef-safe and get along with most tankmates, including tangs, angelfish, and other peaceful species. Avoid housing with overly aggressive fish or other cleaner wrasses, as they may compete or harass each other. In tanks with few fish, they may start picking at healthy tankmates due to lack of food, so ensure they are well-fed and monitored closely.