Red Line Wrasse

Introduction: Common Names: Red Line Wrasse, False Cleaner Wrasse, Redlined Wrasse Natural Habitat: Found in coral reefs and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. Typically inhabits areas with abundant coral cover and sandy substrates. Physical Characteristics: Appearance: Slender body with a striking red stripe running from the snout to the tail, bordered by a white or light yellow line. The rest of the body is bluish-grey, creating a vivid contrast. Size: Grows up to 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) in length. Lifespan: Average lifespan of 5-7 years in a well-maintained aquarium. Habitat Requirements: Tank Size: Minimum of 50 gallons for a single fish; larger tanks are recommended for community setups. Water Conditions: Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C). pH: 8.1-8.4. Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity. Aquascaping: Provide a mix of live rock for hiding and sandy substrates for burrowing. Open swimming spaces are essential to accommodate their active behavior. Diet: Primary Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and invertebrates in the wild. Supplemental Feeding: Offer a variety of frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Enriched flake or pellet foods can be included. Feeding Frequency: Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions. Compatibility: Temperament: Peaceful and active, but may show aggression toward smaller wrasses or fish introduced after them. Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful or semi-aggressive reef fish, such as tangs, gobies, and angelfish. Safe for reef tanks with corals and most invertebrates. Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with overly aggressive fish or species that may prey on them. Care Level: Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water parameters and a mature tank with plenty of live rock and sand. Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of stress, malnutrition, or parasitic infections. Quarantine new additions to prevent disease introduction. Breeding: Breeding in Captivity: Rarely achieved due to their pelagic spawning behavior. Spawning: In the wild, males court females and release eggs into the water column, which are then carried by currents. Larvae require specialized care and planktonic food. Economic Considerations: Market Demand: Popular among marine aquarists for their vibrant coloration and reef-safe nature. Pricing: Moderate; prices may vary depending on size and regional availability. Conclusion: The Red Line Wrasse is a beautiful and active addition to reef aquariums, appreciated for its vibrant colors and reef-safe behavior. While relatively hardy, they require a well-maintained environment with ample hiding spots and suitable tank mates. With proper care and a nutritious diet, the Red Line Wrasse can thrive and bring dynamic energy to any marine aquarium.