Sixline Wrasse

Also known as Six-Line Wrasse, Pyjama Wrasse

The Sixline Wrasse is one of the most popular and recognizable wrasse species, displaying distinctive horizontal blue and orange stripes. This active and hardy species is prized for its pest control abilities and vibrant coloration, making it a staple in many reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Pseudocheilinus hexataenia
• Common Names: Sixline Wrasse, Six-Line Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe (with caution regarding small ornamental shrimp)
• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Beginner; very hardy and adaptable

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide extensive live rock with caves, crevices, and hiding spots. These wrasses are active hunters that patrol all areas of the aquarium. Appreciates complex rockwork with plenty of exploration areas. Secure lid recommended as they can jump.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Good water quality required
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Protein skimmer
  • Adequate filtration
  • Moderate water circulation

Diet & Feeding

Sixline Wrasses are carnivorous hunters with varied dietary needs:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Will naturally hunt flatworms, pyramidellid snails, bristleworms, and other pests
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Excellent natural pest control; actively hunts unwanted invertebrates throughout rockwork

Notes & Considerations

• Displays six distinctive horizontal stripes alternating between blue/purple and orange.
• Reef safe with corals; may occasionally hunt very small ornamental shrimp.
• One of the best natural pest controllers; actively hunts flatworms and pyramidellid snails.
• Can become territorial and aggressive, especially in smaller tanks.
• May harass smaller, peaceful fish and other wrasses added after it.
• Best added as one of the last fish to established aquariums.
• Very hardy and disease-resistant; excellent choice for beginners.
• Adapts quickly to aquarium life and accepts prepared foods readily.
• Active hunter that constantly patrols rockwork searching for food.
• Does not require sand substrate for burying.
• Temperament can vary; some individuals are peaceful while others are quite aggressive.
• Not suitable for tanks with small ornamental invertebrates like sexy shrimp.

Why Choose a Quarantined Sixline Wrasse?

Our quarantined Sixline Wrasses are already acclimated to aquarium life and accepting all prepared foods. This observation period also allows us to assess individual temperament, ensuring you receive a healthy, robust specimen ready to provide both vibrant color and effective pest control in your reef aquarium.