Eightline Wrasse

The eightline wrasse is a close relative of the sixline wrasse (P. hexataenia), a great favorite in aquariums; it grows larger and is distinguished by the eight thin longitudinal lines on its body. It spends the day roaming rock crevices and hunting small crustaceans. It is a hardy fish that switches easily to prepared food; however, it can become cantankerous as it grows and may harass small, shy fish. Specimens are wild-collected.

• At least 200 liters and 90 cm in length; plenty of rock crevices and hiding places.
• Salinity specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
• It can jump; a lid is recommended.
• Reef-safe with caution: It leaves corals alone, but eats small ornamental shrimp, crabs and occasionally small snails.

Carnivorous; in the wild it eats mainly bottom-dwelling crustaceans, along with some small mollusks and sea urchins. It is fed twice a day with frozen mysis, brine shrimp, chopped seafood and granules.

Semi-aggressive. It can be cantankerous towards its own kind, other Pseudocheilinus species and small, peaceful fish added later (e.g. fairy wrasses, small gobies); for this reason it is recommended to add it to the aquarium late.

Good companions: Tangs, dwarf angelfish, clownfish, damselfish, large gobies and blennies.

Avoid: Ornamental shrimp, small crabs, sixline wrasse, dottybacks, very shy small fish.