Six Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)

The Six Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia) is one of the most popular and widely kept marine fish, recognised by its six bold horizontal orange stripes on a purple body and a distinctive false eyespot at the tail base. A voracious predator of small parasites, flatworms, and pyramidellid snails preying on clams, it is a highly valued natural reef pest controller. Despite its small size, it can be assertive towards smaller, docile fish added after it is established.

Introduce as one of the later additions to an established reef tank with ample hiding spots. Provide live rock with caves and crevices for territory. Feed mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and quality frozen carnivore preparations. Best kept singly unless the system is large (>300L). Reef-safe with corals; actively hunts and eliminates flatworms, pyramidellid snails, and bristleworm eggs.