Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Indonesia) - Medium

Introduction Common Names: Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, Cleaner Wrasse Scientific Name: Labroides dimidiatus Natural Habitat: Native to the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia. These wrasses are found in shallow, coastal waters where they perform their role as cleaner fish, helping to remove parasites from other fish. Physical Characteristics Appearance: The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is known for its striking appearance, featuring a bright blue stripe that runs along its body, from the snout to the tail. The rest of the body is typically a mix of white and translucent hues. Size: Typically grows to about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) in length. Lifespan: Average lifespan of 5-7 years in an aquarium with proper care. Habitat Requirements Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons for a single specimen; larger tanks are recommended for multiple individuals. Water Conditions: Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C). pH: 8.1-8.4. Salinity: 1.022-1.025 specific gravity. Aquascaping: Provide ample live rock with crevices and caves for shelter. They also need plenty of swimming space as they are active swimmers. Diet Primary Diet: Carnivorous; in the wild, they feed on parasites, dead skin, and mucus from larger fish. Supplemental Feeding: In the aquarium, they can be offered frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small fish. It’s important to offer a variety of food sources to ensure their health. Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times a day, depending on the tank’s inhabitants and available food. Compatibility Temperament: Peaceful; Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses are generally non-aggressive and can live harmoniously with other species. Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with most reef-safe fish, particularly those that may benefit from cleaning services, such as tangs, groupers, and wrasses. They are also suitable for peaceful community tanks with a variety of species. Incompatibilities: Avoid keeping them with aggressive or predatory species, as they may be harassed or even attacked. Care Level Difficulty: Moderate; Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses require a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and appropriate tank mates. They are best suited for experienced aquarists. Health Monitoring: Monitor for signs of stress, such as reduced activity or loss of appetite, which may indicate water quality issues or aggression from tank mates. Tank Maintenance: Regular water changes and stable water conditions are essential for keeping these wrasses healthy. Breeding Breeding in Captivity: Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasses are challenging to breed in captivity. They are protandrous hermaphrodites, meaning they begin life as males and later change to females. Breeding typically occurs in the wild during specific seasons. Requirements: In the aquarium, successful breeding is rare, and their breeding behaviors are difficult to replicate. Economic Considerations Market Demand: Popular in marine aquariums due to their vibrant coloration and beneficial cleaning role. Pricing: Moderate to high; they can be more expensive due to their specialized diet and care requirements. Conclusion The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse is a fascinating and beneficial fish for reef aquariums, known for its role in cleaning other fish. Its striking appearance and peaceful nature make it an attractive addition to community tanks. However, they require stable water conditions, a well-maintained tank, and compatible tank mates to thrive. With the right environment, they can be a long-lasting and beneficial presence in a marine aquarium.