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The cleaner wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) is instantly recognisable by its bold black and blue stripes and sleek body. Native to coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, this fish plays a vital ecological role by cleaning parasites and dead tissue from other fish. In the wild, they set up “cleaning stations,” where larger fish willingly queue up to be groomed.
What makes the cleaner wrasse particularly unique is this mutualistic behaviour—it’s rare to see such cooperation between species. In a home aquarium, they often attempt to replicate this natural role, interacting with other tank mates in a way that fascinates both hobbyists and guests alike. However, their specialised diet and active personality mean they need dedicated care to thrive. I’ll never forget the first time I spotted one in my local aquarium shop—its vibrant colours instantly hooked me, sparking my journey into understanding its care needs. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your Cleaner Wrasse fish thriving, from tank setup to feeding and health tips.
Choosing Your Cleaner Wrasse Fish
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Setting Up the Perfect Tank
Cleaner wrasse fish thrive in larger, mature reef tanks that replicate their natural habitat. A tank size of at least 200 litres is recommended, with plenty of live rock to explore and hide amongst. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C to 27°C, with stable parameters. They prefer moderate to high flow, mimicking ocean currents, which encourages their active swimming nature. Ensure excellent water quality with regular testing for good pH levels in the range of 8.1 to 8.4 and gravity range of 1.02 to 1.024, and always cover your tank securely—these fish are known jumpers! They do best in peaceful community tanks and should not be kept with aggressive fish that may see them as a threat.
Feeding Your Cleaner Wrasse Fish
Feeding cleaner wrasses can be one of the more challenging aspects of their care. In the wild, they feed continuously on parasites and mucus from other fish, which isn’t sustainable in a home aquarium. To replicate this, aim to feed them 3–4 small meals daily, offering a mix of finely chopped meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, and enriched marine pellets or flakes. Some may take time to accept prepared foods, so patience is key. Live blackworms can be a helpful transitional food. Variety is crucial for their long-term health.
Health and Maintenance
Cleaner wrasses are prone to stress-related illnesses, especially when first introduced to a new system. Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon) and flukes are common, so a quarantine period before adding them to your display tank is highly recommended. Watch for symptoms like erratic swimming, flashing against rocks, or a loss of appetite—early signs something might be wrong. UV sterilisers and stable parameters can help prevent outbreaks. If illness occurs, treat in a separate hospital tank with a reef-safe medication suited for parasitic infections. Regular feeding, low-stress environments, and pristine water conditions will go a long way in keeping your cleaner wrasse vibrant and healthy.
Caring for a Cleaner Wrasse fish takes some effort, but the payoff is immense. With the right tank setup, a tasty and varied diet, and a bit of TLC, you’ll have a dazzling helper for your aquarium. Got any questions or your own cleaner tales? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
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