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Labroides dimidiatus, also known as the cleaner wrasse, is an iconic reef fish known for its unique cleaning behavior. It measures about 10 cm as an adult and features a electric blue body with a wide black horizontal stripe running from the mouth to the caudal fin.
This fish establishes genuine cleaning stations in the aquarium where other fish come to be rid of their parasites and dead skin. It adopts a specific stationary, vibrant, and welcoming posture that encourages other species to approach and benefit from its services.
Labroides dimidiatus is generally solitary and not very tolerant of its own kind. It is therefore advised to keep only one per aquarium, unless a pair is formed. This fish may also mistake certain biological structures for parasites, especially the mantle of clams, which it might peck.
Although it is a natural cleaner, it is essential to provide supplementary feeding, especially in sparsely populated tanks.
At nightfall, this fish retreats to a shelter and creates a mucous cocoon to protect itself from stress and potential predators. This natural behavior is often observed in aquariums.
Labroides dimidiatus is an iconic and functional fish, ideal for large, well-structured reef aquariums. Its natural cleaning behavior, unique posture, and vibrant colors make it as useful as it is aesthetic.