Six Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Six Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia)

The Six Line Wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus hexataenia, is a popular choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information for successfully keeping this species in your tank.

Habitat

The Six Line Wrasse is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and the Great Barrier Reef. These fish can be found in coral reefs, rocky or sandy areas with plenty of hiding places.

Reef Safe

The Six Line Wrasse is generally considered reef safe. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with small shrimp or small ornamental crustaceans, as they may be treated as prey.

Size

The maximum size of the Six Line Wrasse is around 3 inches, making it a suitable choice for smaller aquarium setups.

Temperament

The Six Line Wrasse is known for its aggressive behavior, especially towards similar-shaped fish or smaller fish in the tank. It is important to provide plenty of hiding spots and territories to minimize aggression.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is no significant difference in appearance between male and female Six Line Wrasses.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Six Line Wrasse is around 4 to 6 years, but with proper care and a suitable environment, they can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The diet of the Six Line Wrasse consists mainly of small invertebrates and meaty foods. They will readily accept a variety of live, frozen, and pellet foods, including brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for the Six Line Wrasse, it is important to provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, caves, and coral structures. This will help create territories and reduce aggression between tankmates.

Captive Bred Availability

The Six Line Wrasse is available as captive-bred individuals, which are often hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions. It is recommended to choose captive-bred specimens whenever possible to support sustainable aquaculture practices.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Six Line Wrasse can be kept with a variety of peaceful to semi-aggressive fish species. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with smaller, similar-shaped fish or delicate invertebrates. Here are five specific tankmates that can be good choices:

1. Clownfish: These popular and hardy fish can coexist with the Six Line Wrasse, as they occupy different areas of the tank.
2. Gobies: Peaceful gobies, such as the Yellow Watchman Goby, can make good tankmates for the Six Line Wrasse.
3. Firefish: Firefish species are generally compatible with the Six Line Wrasse and can add movement and color to the tank.
4. Damsels: Certain damsels, like the Three Spot Damsel, can tolerate the aggression of the Six Line Wrasse.
5. Blennies: Blennies are known for their unique behaviors and can peacefully coexist with the Six Line Wrasse.

These tankmates have different body shapes and occupy various areas of the tank, reducing the chance of aggression between them and the Six Line Wrasse.

Other Common Names

The Six Line Wrasse is also known by other common names, including Sixstripe Wrasse and Sixline Wrasse.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

Reefs4Less.com is a reputable online retailer with a wide selection of saltwater aquarium fish and supplies. They offer high-quality livestock, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. Additionally, they prioritize the health and well-being of their fish, ensuring that they are properly quarantined and acclimated before shipping.

Popular Questions and Answers

1. 1. Q: Are Six Line Wrasses compatible with corals?

A: Yes, Six Line Wrasses are generally considered reef safe and can be kept with a variety of corals. However, caution should be exercised with small and delicate corals, as the wrasse may nip at their polyps.

1. 1. Q: Can Six Line Wrasses be kept in small aquariums?

A: While Six Line Wrasses can adapt to smaller aquariums, a minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended to provide ample swimming space and territories.

1. 1. Q: How often should Six Line Wrasses be fed?

A: Six Line Wrasses should be fed small amounts of food multiple times a day. It is recommended to feed them at least twice a day to ensure they receive enough nutrition.

1. 1. Q: Do Six Line Wrasses require any special water parameters?

A: The Six Line Wrasses prefer stable water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, salinity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 72-78°F.

1. 1. Q: Are Six Line Wrasses suitable for beginner saltwater aquarium keepers?

A: Due to their aggressive behavior and specific care requirements, Six Line Wrasses are better suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists with experience in maintaining marine aquariums.

longevity.