Eight Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus octotaenia)

The Eight Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus octotaenia) is a larger and more intensely colored relative of the popular Six Line Wrasse, sporting eight distinct horizontal stripes of vivid red, pink, and white against a purple body. Like its cousin, it is an excellent predator of small aquarium pests including flat worms, small snails, pyramidellid snails on tridacnid clams, and bristle worms. However, it is a more assertive and territorially aggressive species — especially toward smaller, passive fish and ornamental invertebrates — and should be paired carefully with appropriately sized, confident tank mates. House in a system with ample live rock for exploration and shelter.

Provide at least 150 liters with abundant live rock and multiple hiding areas. Feed twice daily with frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and meaty marine preparations. Can be aggressive toward smaller or similar-shaped fish; add last to the tank community. Monitor behavior with smaller ornamental shrimp as it may prey on them. Reef-safe with caution — may harass small fan worms.