Common name: Bluestriped fangblenny

Scientific name: Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)

General information

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, scientifically known as Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos, is a captivating species renowned for its symbiotic relationship with other marine organisms. This slender fish is easily recognizable by its vibrant blue streak and elongated body. In the wild, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of reef communities by removing parasites and dead tissue from other fish.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
150 liter (40 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to difficult Mimics cleaner wrasse behavior
Diet
Carnivore Imitates cleaners to feed on mucus
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at fish, mimics cleaners
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive mimicry tactics
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Blennies
    Blenniidae
  6. Genus
    Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse
    Plagiotremus
  7. Species
    Bluestriped fangblenny
    Plagiotremus rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)
  8. Synonyms
    Aspidontus rhinorhynchops (Bleeker, 1852)
    Aspidontus rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)
    Petroscirtes amblyrhynchos Bleeker, 1857
    Petroscirtes amblyrhynchus Bleeker, 1857
    Petroscirtes rhinorhynchos Bleeker, 1852
    Petroscirtes rhinorhynchus Bleeker, 1852
    Petroskirtes amblyrhynchos Bleeker, 1857
    Petroskirtes rhinorhynchos Bleeker, 1852
    Plagiotremus rhinorhyncos (Bleeker, 1852)
    Plagiotremus rhynorhynchus (Bleeker, 1852)
    Plagiotremus rhynorhyncus (Bleeker, 1852)
    Runula amblyrhynchus (Bleeker, 1857)
    Runula rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)

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 systems where they can perform their natural cleaning behaviors. These wrasses are known to be challenging to keep due to their specialized dietary needs, often relying on a steady supply of parasites from other fish. Supplemental feeding with small meaty foods and preparations designed for cleaner wrasses can help sustain them in captivity.

Reproduction

Reproduction of Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses in home aquariums is rare. In the wild, they exhibit complex mating behaviors and are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change from female to male during their life cycle. Understanding and replicating the specific conditions needed for breeding is a challenge for even the most experienced aquarists.

Symbiosis

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is famous for its mutualistic cleaning symbiosis with a wide variety of reef fish. By setting up 'cleaning stations' on the reef, they attract client fish seeking parasite removal. This interaction is beneficial for both parties: the wrasse gains a food source, while the client fish receive health maintenance. This behavior can also be observed in the aquarium, where they may offer cleaning services to tank mates.

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses are found in coral-rich areas and clear lagoons. They prefer environments with strong water movement and are often observed in shallow waters where they can easily access client fish.