Cleaner Wrasse – Labroides dimidiatus

About this fish

Cleaner Wrasse – Labroides dimidiatus is a saltwater reef fish (scientific name verified: Labroides dimidiatus) known for its “cleaning” behavior—picking at parasites and dead tissue on other marine fish. In a home aquarium, this can make an interesting, interactive addition for compatible fish, especially in tanks with established fish populations. Because this species is specialized, it’s best suited for aquarists prepared to support a stable reef environment and an appropriate feeding routine.

Features:

• Acts as a cleaner-type wrasse, helping fish remove ectoparasites in a social tank setting
• Usually reef-safe with typical reef invertebrates when established and well-fed
• Best in established marine aquariums where fish already recognize cleaning interactions
• Generally peaceful in behavior, though it may show mild territorial tendencies with other wrasses
• Active swimmer that benefits from good water quality and live rock for natural behavior
• Often does best when offered a diet that matches its natural intake (including small meaty foods)

Specifications:

• Care level: Moderate (specialized feeding/establishment needs)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful; may be territorial with similar wrasses
• Adult size: About 4 in (around 10 cm)
• Diet: Meaty foods such as small marine fare; also benefits from foods offered in the same way it would naturally feed (appropriate for cleaner wrasses)
• Temperature: About 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: About 8.1–8.4 (typical reef range)
• Salinity: About 1.020–1.025 specific gravity
• Alkalinity (dKH): About 7–11 dKH (typical reef range)
• Calcium: About 380–450 ppm (typical reef range)
• Magnesium: About 1250–1350 ppm (typical reef range)