Common name: Bluestriped fangblenny
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyBlenniesBlenniidae
- GenusBluestreak Cleaner WrassePlagiotremus
- SpeciesBluestriped fangblennyPlagiotremus rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)
- SynonymsAspidontus rhinorhynchops (Bleeker, 1852)Aspidontus rhinorhynchos (Bleeker, 1852)Petroscirtes amblyrhynchos Bleeker, 1857Petroscirtes amblyrhynchus Bleeker, 1857Petroscirtes rhinorhynchos Bleeker, 1852Petroscirtes rhinorhynchus Bleeker, 1852Petroskirtes amblyrhynchos Bleeker, 1857Petroskirtes rhinorhynchos Bleeker, 1852Plagiotremus 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.