The Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) is a captivating marine fish renowned for its symbiotic cleaning behaviour, where it removes parasites and dead tissue from other fish. Our stock is tank-bred, ensuring healthier specimens and better adaptation to aquarium life.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. This species requires stable water parameters and a well-established aquarium.
Temperament: Generally peaceful but may become territorial towards conspecifics or similar species. Best kept singly or in a large tank with ample hiding spaces.
Diet: Primarily carnivorous, feeding on ectoparasites in the wild. In captivity, they accept a varied diet including high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and specialised prepared diets formulated for cleaner wrasses.
Minimum Tank Size: 120 litres (approximately 30 gallons) to provide sufficient swimming space and territory.
Reef Compatibility: Yes, safe for reef aquariums when provided with adequate hiding places and a peaceful community.
Lighting and Water Flow: Standard reef lighting and moderate water flow are suitable, mimicking their natural coral reef habitat.
Placement: Mid to lower levels of the aquarium, with plenty of live rock for shelter and cleaning stations.
Origin: Not Provided (tank-bred specimens).
Maximum Size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches).
FAQs
Q: Can Cleaner Wrasse be kept in a community tank?
A: Yes, they are generally peaceful and compatible with most reef-safe fish, but avoid housing multiple Cleaner Wrasses together unless the tank is very large.
Q: What should I feed a Cleaner Wrasse in captivity?
A: Offer a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and specialised prepared foods to replicate their natural diet.
Q: Are Tank-Bred Cleaner Wrasse hard to keep?
A: They require stable water conditions and a mature aquarium but tank-bred specimens adapt better than wild-caught ones.
