Common name: Bluestripe pipefish

General information

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, scientifically known as Labroides dimidiatus, is a captivating and beneficial species for marine aquariums. This small, elongated fish is easily recognizable by its striking blue and black horizontal stripes that run the length of its body. In the wild, these wrasses are known for their symbiotic relationship with a variety of fish species, providing a cleaning service by removing parasites and dead skin.

Care

In the aquarium, Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses require a well-established environment with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are best suited for larger tanks where they can establish a territory. These wrasses are active swimmers and need ample space to roam. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as frozen mysis shrimp and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, is essential for their health.

Reproduction

Breeding Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses in captivity is challenging and rarely successful. They have complex mating rituals and social structures that are difficult to replicate in home aquariums. In the wild, they are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change from female to male during their lifecycle.

Symbiosis

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is famous for its mutualistic cleaning behavior. It sets up 'cleaning stations' where it invites fish, including larger predatory species, to be cleaned. This interaction is crucial for the health of the reef community, as it helps control parasite populations and fosters peaceful coexistence among different species.

Habitat

Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, often at depths of 1 to 30 meters. These wrasses prefer areas with moderate to strong water currents.