Cleaner Wrasse
Cleaner Wrasse
Cleaner Wrasse: Nature's Ultimate Reef Caretaker
The Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus) is a fascinating and invaluable addition to any reef aquarium, known for its symbiotic relationship with other marine life. Displaying a striking appearance with its sleek blue and black coloration, this energetic fish not only adds dynamic beauty to your tank but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of its fellow inhabitants.
Why Choose Cleaner Wrasse?
Cleaner Wrasse are renowned for their unique behavior of setting up "cleaning stations" where they meticulously remove parasites and dead tissue from other fish. This natural service enhances the well-being of your aquarium's community, making the Cleaner Wrasse a functional and interactive aspect of your tank ecosystem.
Care Level & Requirements
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful and cooperative
Minimum Tank Size: 50+ gallons
Diet: Omnivore - specialized diet including frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and mysis, supplemented with marine flake food
Reef Safe: Yes
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: 1.020-1.025
Tank Compatibility
The Cleaner Wrasse thrives in a well-established reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for them to establish their cleaning stations. They are peaceful community members that coexist harmoniously with most fish species, particularly appreciating the presence of larger fish that seek their cleaning services. While they are reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates, it is vital to ensure that their tank mates do not display aggressive behavior, which could disrupt their cleaning activities.
A Healthy, Engaging Addition
Bringing a Cleaner Wrasse into your reef aquarium enriches both the aesthetic and ecological balance of your tank. Their diligent cleaning habits, combined with their lively presence, offer an engaging spectacle for hobbyists and an essential health service for your marine community. Make the Cleaner Wrasse a part of your reef family today and experience the harmony they bring to your underwater world.
Feeding & Diet
Feeding & Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, the Pithos Crab will scavenge detritus, uneaten food, and algae — making it a natural cleanup crew member. Supplement with small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or pellets 2–3x per week if natural food sources are limited.
Care & Water Parameters
Care & Water Parameters
The Pithos Crab thrives in stable, well-maintained reef conditions. Target parameters: temperature 72–78°F, salinity 1.025–1.026 SG, pH 8.1–8.4, and alkalinity 8–12 dKH. A mature, established tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Generally considered reef-safe. The Pithos Crab coexists well with most corals and peaceful fish. Use caution with very small invertebrates or slow-moving tankmates. Provide ample rockwork and hiding spots to reduce territorial behavior.
Size & Growth
Size & Growth
Pithos Crabs are typically shipped at 0.5–1.5 inches. They are slow-growing and generally remain small, making them well-suited for nano and mid-size reef systems.
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
All livestock ships with heat or cold packs as needed and is packaged for safe transit. We stand behind a live arrival guarantee — if your animal arrives DOA, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with a clear photo. See our full DOA policy for claim details.
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