Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) is a small yet highly beneficial fish for reef tanks, known for its unique cleaning behavior. This wrasse forms a symbiotic relationship with other fish by eating parasites and dead skin off larger fish. With its vibrant blue coloration and slender body, it adds both beauty and functionality to aquariums. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is commonly found in coral reefs, often around cleaning stations.

(REEF SAFE / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, Cleaner Wrasse
• Scientific Name: Labroides dimidiatus
• Family: Labridae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Indo-Pacific region, found in coral reefs from East Africa to the Pacific Islands.
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 4 inches (10 cm).
• Lifespan: Typically lives around 5 to 7 years in captivity with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires a stable, well-established aquarium with other peaceful fish.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is characterized by its striking blue streak running from head to tail, with a white or light-colored belly. The overall body is sleek and slender.
• Body Shape & Structure: Small, elongated body with a pointed snout, perfect for cleaning other fish.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 30-gallon (114-liter) tank is recommended, though larger tanks are ideal to accommodate their active cleaning behavior.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.022 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide plenty of live rock for hiding and cleaning activities. The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse requires an established tank with a variety of fish to perform its cleaning behavior.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: While they primarily eat parasites from other fish, they can also be fed high-quality frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp, along with pellets or flakes.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1 to 2 times daily, offering small portions to prevent overfeeding.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful and cooperative with other fish, particularly when performing cleaning services.
• Social Behavior: Known for its cleaning symbiosis with other fish; can be kept singly or in pairs.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Best kept with peaceful fish, especially those that appreciate cleaning services; avoid aggressive fish that may stress or harm the cleaner wrasse.
• Activity Level: Active swimmers, constantly moving around the tank to seek out fish to clean.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Suitable for intermediate hobbyists; requires a well-maintained tank with a variety of fish for cleaning opportunities.
• Special Requirements: Regular water changes and feeding are important, as the Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse relies on both cleaning behavior and additional nutrition for survival.
• Breeding Info: Difficult to breed in captivity, though it is possible for them to reproduce in larger, well-maintained tanks.
• Additional Notes: This wrasse can significantly reduce parasites in the aquarium, making it a valuable addition to reef tanks. However, they may not adapt well to aquariums without other fish or those that lack cleaning stations.