Overview
- Widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific, often found in coral reefs and coastal lagoons.
- Easily recognized by its sleek, elongated body and distinct black stripe running from head to tail.
- Plays a vital role in reef ecosystems by removing parasites from larger fish.
- Forms cleaning stations where fish line up to receive its services.
Feeding
- Primarily feeds on parasites, mucus, and dead skin removed from host fish.
- In captivity, may struggle to adapt to artificial diets but can accept finely chopped seafood, brine shrimp, and plankton-based foods.
- Encouraging feeding with frequent small meals helps maintain health.
- Best housed in aquariums with active fish willing to accept its cleaning behavior.
Habitat
- Inhabits coral reefs with rocky outcrops and ledges where it can establish cleaning stations.
- Requires an aquarium with open swimming space and moderate water flow.
- Best suited for large, well-established reef tanks with a stable fish population.
- Avoids high-intensity lighting and benefits from shaded areas in the aquarium.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Highly sensitive to poor water quality; requires pristine conditions and regular maintenance.
- Best kept by experienced aquarists due to its delicate nature and dietary needs.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but can become aggressive toward similar-looking species.
- Best housed with reef-safe fish that tolerate its cleaning behavior.
- May not thrive in tanks with aggressive predators that do not recognize it as a cleaner.
- Should not be kept in small or sparsely stocked tanks, as it relies on fish interactions.
Aquarium Behavior
- Highly active and constantly on the move, seeking out fish to clean.
- Forms social bonds with larger species, reducing their stress levels through cleaning interactions.
- Exhibits a unique swimming pattern, darting quickly between host fish.
- Requires a stable tank environment to prevent stress-related health issues.