Blue Cleaner Wrasse

Care Level: ModerateMain Diet: CarnivoreCompatibility: Peaceful, but may be aggressive towards smaller fishReef Safe: YesAdult Size: 2-4"Suggested Tank Size: 30+ gallons
The Cleaner Wrasse, scientifically known as Labroides dimidiatus, is a fascinating and beneficial marine fish species. These wrasses are highly sought after for their unique behavior of cleaning other fish by removing parasites and dead skin from their bodies.
Keeping a Cleaner Wrasse in your aquarium provides not only a beautiful addition to your tank but also a natural solution to maintaining the health of other fish. However, they require more care compared to other fish species due to their specialized diet and behavior.
The Cleaner Wrasse should be fed a varied diet that includes small meaty foods such as frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It is important to replicate their natural diet as closely as possible to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Supplementing their diet with high-quality marine pellets or flakes formulated specifically for carnivorous fish is also recommended.
Although generally peaceful, Cleaner Wrasses may exhibit aggression towards smaller or more docile fish species. Therefore, it is essential to provide plenty of hiding places and rockwork in the tank to create territories and minimize potential conflicts. A tank size of at least 30 gallons or larger is suggested to accommodate their need for swimming space and to maintain good water quality.
Cleaner Wrasses can be incorporated into a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates. They will often establish cleaning stations on the rocks or within coral formations, inviting other fish to come and be cleaned. Observing these interactions is not only entertaining but also beneficial for the overall health of your fish community.
Maintaining stable water parameters, preferably with a temperature of 75-82°F (24-28°C), pH of 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, is crucial for the well-being of the Cleaner Wrasse. Regular water changes and diligent tank maintenance are necessary to keep the water quality at an optimal level.
With proper care and attention, the Cleaner Wrasse can thrive in a home aquarium while exhibiting its intriguing cleaning behavior, making it a unique and captivating addition to your marine setup.