More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 150 litres / 39.63 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 7.0cm / 2.76inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Aggressive towards other species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Four-lined wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus tetrataenia, is a member of the Labridae family. These fish, popular in aquariums, are effective at controlling flatworm and pyramid snail populations. They are typically around 7.0cm in size and are native to the Pacific Ocean, ranging from Japan to the Austral Islands.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums with caution, the Four-lined wrasse is known for its aggressiveness towards other fish species, particularly those that are peaceful or docile. They are prone to jumping out of open aquariums and pose a threat to small crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. Providing regular feeding, ample hiding spots, and sufficient space can help manage their aggressive behavior.
Care and Hardiness
These wrasses are classified as hardy and can adapt well to aquarium environments. They require feeding several times a day, especially when newly introduced. While they may eat small crustaceans, such behavior is usually not a problem. Adequate hiding places among live rocks are essential for their well-being, and they may exhibit some shyness initially in a new aquarium.
Reef Suitability
The Four-lined wrasse is deemed reef-safe, making them a suitable addition to reef aquariums. Their presence can benefit the ecosystem by helping control unwanted invertebrate populations.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Four-lined wrasse, it is crucial to include plenty of live rocks with hiding spaces. Maintaining stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 is important for their well-being.
Behaviour
These wrasses tend to thrive best when kept as the sole representative of their species in an aquarium setting. They may exhibit aggressive behavior towards other fish but tend to hide when threatened by larger, more aggressive species.
Feeding and Diet
The recommended diet for the Four-lined wrasse includes small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Maintaining a varied diet of frozen and flake foods is usually easy, although individual preferences may vary.
Dimorphism
One notable feature of these wrasses is their ability to change gender from female to male. When the need for a male arises, a female can transition to male, adapting to the requirements of the group.
Habitat and Distribution
In their natural habitat, Four-lined wrasses can be found in regions spanning from Australia to the East Pacific and the Central/West Pacific. They typically reside among rocks and are known to sleep between the crevices rather than burrowing into the sand.