Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides Dimidiatus)

The Cleaner Wrasse is a fascinating and important species in marine ecosystems, known for its role in providing cleaning services to other fish. Its sleek, slender body and distinctive black stripe make it instantly recognizable as it darts around the reef, picking parasites and dead skin from larger fish. In an aquarium, they can bring interesting interactions but require specialized care to ensure their health and longevity.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 5 inches.
• Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum, with open swimming space.
• Diet: In the wild, Cleaner Wrasses feed primarily on parasites found on other fish. In captivity, they require a varied diet of finely chopped seafood, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality frozen foods to mimic their natural feeding habits. Supplementing with vitamins and offering frequent feedings is crucial for long-term survival.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; interacts well with other fish, as it serves as a "cleaner" in both the wild and captivity. They are generally non-aggressive but should be kept with tankmates that will tolerate their cleaning behavior.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires special attention to diet and acclimatization to aquarium life. Cleaner Wrasses are best suited for experienced aquarists due to their dietary needs and specific care requirements.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and is often seen swimming around the reef, providing cleaning services to other tank inhabitants.

Special Requirement - Diet and Acclimatization
Cleaner Wrasses have specific dietary needs that must be carefully met in an aquarium. They naturally feed on parasites and dead tissue in the wild, so replicating their feeding habits with frequent, high-quality offerings is key to their survival. Acclimatization to aquarium life can be challenging, making them suitable for more experienced aquarists.

Color Variation by Locality

• Indo-Pacific Region: Cleaner Wrasses from this region typically exhibit a bright blue body with a striking black stripe running along their sides. Color intensity may vary slightly depending on environmental conditions​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Cleaner Wrasse is found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Maldives, and parts of Southeast Asia. They are commonly seen on coral reefs, where they establish cleaning stations and interact with other reef fish​.