Quick Stats
Expert Only |
Temperament
Peaceful |
Color Form
Black, White, Blue |
Diet
Carnivore |
Reef Compatible
Yes |
sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
Max. Size
5 inches |
Family
Labridae |
Minimum Tank Size
55 gallons |
|
Description
The Bicolor Cleaner Wrasse is a fascinating species known for its unique behavior of cleaning parasites and dead tissue from other fish, making it a functional yet striking addition to any expert-level marine aquarium. With a sleek body displaying bands of black, white, and blue, the Bicolor Cleaner Wrasse is as visually appealing as it is beneficial for the health of other fish in the tank.
Native to coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific, this wrasse establishes “cleaning stations” where larger fish come to be groomed, making it a socially engaging species to observe. However, the Bicolor Cleaner Wrasse is notoriously difficult to maintain in a home aquarium as it has highly specialized feeding requirements. In the wild, it feeds almost exclusively on the parasites it removes from other fish, so it can be challenging to provide adequate nutrition in captivity. This species is recommended only for expert aquarists who have the resources and experience to meet its demanding care needs.
While it is generally peaceful and reef-safe, the Bicolor Cleaner Wrasse requires a spacious aquarium with multiple hiding spots and ample swimming space. Keeping it in a well-established, larger reef system with plenty of fish will help simulate its natural environment and improve its chances of thriving.