Common name: Eight-lined wrasse
General information
The Eightline Wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus octotaenia, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking appearance, characterized by its deep red to purple body with eight horizontal white stripes. The Eightline Wrasse is a member of the Labridae family, which includes other popular aquarium wrasses.
In the wild, these wrasses are solitary and territorial, often found darting among the crevices and overhangs of coral reefs. They are adept at hunting small invertebrates, which makes them a beneficial addition to a reef tank for controlling pest populations.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 11 cm (4½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding places
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusWrassePseudocheilinus
- SpeciesEight-lined wrassePseudocheilinus octotaenia Jenkins, 1901
- SynonymsPseudocheilinus margaretae Smith, 1956
Care
The Eightline Wrasse requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. They are known for their vigorous swimming habits, so ample space is necessary. A tightly fitting lid is also recommended as they can be prone to jumping when startled or stressed.
These wrasses are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Consistent feeding schedules and varied diets will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, breeding the Eightline Wrasse can be challenging due to their solitary nature and specific mating rituals. In the wild, they are known to perform elaborate dances and displays to attract mates. However, there are few documented cases of successful breeding in home aquariums.
Habitat
Pseudocheilinus octotaenia is native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They are typically found at depths of 10 to 60 meters, where they inhabit coral-rich areas and rocky outcrops. Their natural environment should be emulated in the aquarium to provide the best care for these wrasses.