Six Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)

The Six Line Wrasse is a small but colorful and active species that adds a lot of movement and personality to reef aquariums. With its vibrant horizontal stripes of purple, blue, and orange, this wrasse is as striking as it is useful. Known for its beneficial pest control abilities, the Six Line Wrasse actively hunts nuisance species like flatworms and bristle worms, making it a great addition to tanks looking for a natural method of pest control. However, it is known for its territorial behavior, particularly in smaller tanks.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches.
• Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum; larger tanks with plenty of rockwork are ideal to reduce territorial aggression and provide ample hiding spots.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It will also consume pests like flatworms and bristle worms in the tank. Offering a varied diet of frozen or live foods helps maintain its health and vibrant coloration.
• Water Temp: 74-80°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; the Six Line Wrasse can become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or with similarly shaped species. It is best housed with other peaceful or slightly assertive fish, and its territorial behavior can be managed more easily in larger, well-stocked tanks.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; hardy and easy to care for, making it a great choice for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and can help control pests like flatworms, adding both functional and visual value to a reef tank.

Special Feature - Pest Control
One of the standout qualities of the Six Line Wrasse is its ability to help control populations of pests like flatworms and bristle worms in reef tanks. While this behavior is beneficial, it is important to monitor its behavior with other invertebrates, as some individuals may show aggression toward shrimp or very small fish.

Compatibility
The Six Line Wrasse is a highly active swimmer and should be housed with other fish that can handle its energy level. In smaller tanks, its territorial behavior may become more pronounced, especially toward other wrasses or similarly shaped species. To reduce aggression, ensure the tank has plenty of live rock and hiding spots.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Six Line Wrasse displays vibrant horizontal stripes of purple, blue, and orange across its body, with bright red eyes that add to its striking appearance. This colorful pattern makes it stand out in any marine tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Six Line Wrasse inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas where it can find small prey and hide in crevices. It prefers tanks with plenty of rockwork to dart in and out of while hunting for food.