Labroides dimidiatus 4-6 cm

Measuring about 10 cm, the Labroides dimidiatus is a fish found in a very large geographical area. This species lives near coral reefs, at mid-height or near the bottom. Its body is entirely silver, and a wide black band runs horizontally from the head to the caudal fin. Additionally, it has a habit of forming a mucous cocoon which it enters at dusk.

When kept in an aquarium, the Labroides dimidiatus requires a minimum volume of 200L. The water temperature should be between 23° and 28°, and the pH between 8 and 8.5. The specificity of this fish, known for its cleaning abilities, lies in its tendency to remain at specific points in the reef aquarium, thus creating cleaning stations for other species carrying ectoparasites. Solitary and not very tolerant of its kind, only one Labroides dimidiatus per aquarium is recommended, although it is possible to acclimate a pair. Its cohabitation with clams is also discouraged since the cleaner wrasse damages their mantles, mistaking the points they see for parasites.

Labroides dimidiatus common name: Cleaner wrasse. This fish has an elongated body that is electric blue with a wide black horizontal stripe running from the mouth to the tail. It cleans other fish of their parasites. Be cautious if you have clams, as this wrasse tends to peck at their mantles.