Common name: False cleanerfish

General information

The False Cleanerfish, Aspidontus taeniatus, is a species of wrasse that is notorious for its mimicry of the Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus). This mimicry is a form of aggressive mimicry where the False Cleanerfish deceives other fish into believing it is a harmless cleanerfish. Instead of cleaning the fish, it often nips fins or scales to feed on them.

The resemblance to the Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is remarkable, with similar coloration and behavior. However, upon closer inspection, one can notice differences such as the mouth shape and the absence of a distinctive black spot on the dorsal fin that is present in the true cleaner wrasse.

Care

Keeping a False Cleanerfish in a home aquarium is challenging due to its aggressive mimicry behavior, which can stress or injure other fish. It is not recommended for a community tank, especially with smaller or peaceful fish species. An aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces and a varied diet that includes meaty foods is essential for their well-being.

Reproduction

There is limited information on the breeding habits of Aspidontus taeniatus in the wild or in captivity. They are not commonly bred in home aquariums, and their aggressive behavior can complicate social dynamics and breeding efforts.

Habitat

Aspidontus taeniatus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to New Caledonia, and throughout Micronesia. They typically inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, often associating with the Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse they mimic.