Pseudocheilinus octotaenia

Datasheet

General Description

The Eight Lined Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus octotaenia) is a member of the Labridae family, known for being popular in aquariums due to their attractiveness and effectiveness at controlling flatworm and pyramid snail populations. They are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from East Africa to the Hawaiian and Ducie Islands, with a habitat that extends northward to the Yaeyama Island.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums, the Eight Lined Wrasse requires careful attention due to its aggressive nature towards other fish species, posing a threat to smaller fish and invertebrates. They are known to jump out of open aquariums, emphasizing the need for secure tank lids. Providing ample hiding spaces, regular feeding, and sufficient space can help manage their aggressive tendencies to some extent.

Care and Hardiness

With an average level of hardiness, these wrasses prefer a minimum tank size of 300 liters and thrive best when housed without other members of the same species in the aquarium. They are initially shy when introduced to a new tank but can adapt over time. Their diet consists of various foods including flatworms, pyramid snails, larger and smaller crustaceans, and zooplankton.

Reef Suitability

Reef compatibility with caution is advised for the Eight Lined Wrasse, as they can be aggressive towards other species present in the reef environment. Their penchant for consuming small crustaceans and invertebrates can disrupt the delicate balance of a reef tank.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Eight Lined Wrasse, it is crucial to include ample hiding spots among live rocks to accommodate their need for shelter. Maintaining water conditions within the ranges of pH 8.1-8.4, temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and salinity of 1.020-1.025 is essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

These wrasses exhibit aggressive behavior towards other fish, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration when choosing tank mates. They are known to hide between rocks rather than burrow into sand and are active during the day, showcasing their vibrant coloration.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding the Eight Lined Wrasse a varied diet multiple times a day is recommended, especially upon initial introduction to the tank. Their diet can consist of larger crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and zooplankton including cyclops and pods.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, these wrasses inhabit regions ranging from the East Indian Ocean to the West Pacific, favoring areas with ample live rock formations for hiding and foraging. Their distribution spans across East Africa, Australia, Indonesia, and various regions in the Pacific Ocean.

Dimorphism

Being hermaphroditic, the Eight Lined Wrasse has the ability to change gender from female to male as needed within the social dynamics of the group. Captive reproduction of this species is possible, providing insights into their reproductive biology and behavior within aquarium settings.