Sixline Wrasse - Pseudocheilinus hexataeni

The Sixline Wrasse, also known as the Six-Line Wrasse, is a small, active, and colorful reef fish prized for its vibrant blue body and six distinct horizontal stripes. Hardy and energetic, this wrasse is an excellent addition to reef aquariums, providing natural pest control by consuming small bristle worms and other nuisance invertebrates.

Description:

Common Names: Sixline Wrasse, Six-Line Wrasse

Scientific Name: Pseudocheilinus hexataeni

Family: Labridae

Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Reef Safe: With caution

Native Region:

Widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes where it hunts for small invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

pH: 8.0–8.4

Salinity: 1.023–1.025

Substrate: Live rock with ample hiding spots; requires open swimming space and reef structures for natural hunting behavior.

Additional Tips:

• Pest Control: Feeds on bristle worms, flatworms, and other small invertebrates, helping maintain a clean reef environment.

• Behavior: Active and curious; may chase smaller, peaceful fish, so monitor tankmate compatibility.

• Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; suitable with most peaceful to moderately aggressive fish. Avoid housing multiple wrasses of similar size in smaller tanks.

• Feeding: Carnivorous—accepts frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and high-quality prepared diets.