Cleaner Wrasse

The Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) is known for parasite control behavior, setting up a “cleaning station” where other fish pause while it inspects skin, fins, and even mouth areas. It has a crisp black lateral stripe contrasted against a pale body with blue accents, and it’s commonly seen hovering and darting through open water near rock structure.

What You’ll Observe:

• A repeated “tail-wag” invitation dance when it’s ready to clean visiting tankmates
• Short patrol loops between open swimming lanes and a preferred station on the rockwork
• Frequent interaction moments as larger fish pause and present their sides or gill plates
• Active daytime foraging, with quick checks of rock surfaces between client visits

To help this species do well long-term, provide a mature reef with stable conditions, open swimming room, and multiple “client” fish so its natural station behavior fits into the daily rhythm of your tank. Offer small meaty foods in frequent, bite-sized portions during daylight hours so it can keep grazing and stay engaged around the aquarium. A tight-fitting lid helps prevent losses from jumping during acclimation and early exploration.

Will it always clean other fish, or will it also pick at the rocks?
Most individuals split time between “client” visits and roaming the rockwork, especially between cleaning opportunities.

Do other fish immediately line up to be cleaned?
Some tanks see quick participation, while others take a settling-in period before tankmates regularly present themselves at the station.

Can I keep two Cleaner Wrasses together?
Pairs and groups exist in nature, but in typical home setups most hobbyists stick with one unless they have ample space and a well-established community to spread attention.

Is the tail-wag “dance” normal?
Yes—this display is part of how it signals readiness and invites other fish to pause for inspection.

Will it focus on one fish too much?
In mixed communities, attention is usually distributed as different fish rotate through the station, especially once routines are established.

Our selection process means you get robust, well-adjusted specimens that settle in quickly.