Red Sea Cleaner Wrasse

  • Species Information
  • Scientific Name:Larabicus quadrillneatus
  • Described:Red Sea Cleaner Wrasse
  • Temperament:peaceful
  • Maximum Size:Adults can reach up to 11.5 centimeters in length.

Larabicus quadrillneatus

The Red Sea Cleaner Wrasse, Larabicus quadrillneatus (Rüppell, 1835) is a beautiful addition to any aquarist tank, though it can be difficult to care for.  While juveniles, this species will remove parasites from its tank mates, a most helpful hobby. The difficulty is revealed as this gorgeous fish reaches maturity, and it begins to feed on the polyps of the corals in its tank. The Red Sea Cleaner Wrasse is a beautiful and challenging fish.  

Physical Description– This wrasse is a rich blue with four vividly bright blue lines running the length of its body.

Temperment– The Red Sea cleaner wrasse is peaceful in nature towards other fish, offering cleaner services to tank mates, but as they reach maturity they will begin to feed on coral polyps.

Size– Adults can reach up to 11.5 centimeters in length.

Diet– Their diet consists of meaty foods and parasites from other tank mates as juveniles. Adults will feed on the polyps of stony corals.

Distribution– The Red Sea cleaner wrasse is found throughout the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden at depths of up to 15 meters in and along caves and overhangs.