4-line and Clown Wrasse?  10/24/06
Hi Crew,
<John>
I currently have a 90g reef tank with a 4-line Wrasse, Coral Beauty, and One-spot Foxface.  My LFS has a nice Clown Wrasse that I'd like to add (after QT, of course).  What are the chances of the 4-line and Clown Wrasse peacefully co-existing?
<Pretty good in this size/type setting>
  The 4-line is about 3" and the Clown Wrasse is about 4".  The 4-line has been in the tank the longest but is currently at the bottom of the pecking order.
Thank you,
John H.
<I would try this introduction in the AM, when the lights are first on... and you can be about to intervene should there be real trouble... But I suspect there is sufficient space/habitat for all here. Bob Fenner>

Sixline Terror!  - 08/15/06
Dear WWM Crew,
<Hi there! Scott F. with you tonight!>
I have a situation on my hands and I'm hoping that you can give me some sense as to how serious it is and/or protracted it will become. I have a new (established in May, 2006) 72G tank.  The first fish were 5 Chromis viridis. Next came the Sixline Wrasse based on the recommendation of our LFS owner, who assured us of its docile nature.  By way of a "mea culpa" I must say that at that point in my involvement in this hobby, I didn't realize the importance of doing one's own research!!
<Always a great idea!>
About a week ago, we added a beautiful Purple Firefish after a peaceful month in the quarantine tank. Unfortunately, the Wrasse has made this poor fish its special object of hostility.
<Too bad...Unfortunately, it's not all that rare with this fish. Sixlines, despite their diminutive size, tend to be a bit aggressive with more docile fish at times, often taking a particular dislike to one fish, as you are experiencing.>
Currently, the Firefish has found a good home inside a piece of live rock into which it is forced to stay most of the time.  It still eats well, when it can, and has good color.
<Well, there is still hope for the fish getting through this "hazing" period by the Wrasse. I had a small Sixline once that directed its aggression to a small Sailfin Blenny, and just made life miserable for this fish for about 3 weeks. Eventually, the Wrasse lost interest in this harassment, and peace was restored, with no hard feelings between the two fishes. Does it always end this happily? No! So, my recommendation is increased vigilance on your part. Keep a close eye on these fish to make sure that it doesn't get worse, and intervene if necessary.>
My question is this: How long is this aggressive behavior likely to last, and will this Wrasse torment every fish we add?
<As above, it's hard to say. It may just be that the Firefish is the "new kid on the block", or it could be that the Wrasse simply is intolerant of this guy.>
Are there other peaceful fish we can add that will not be subject to this?  Also, I've heard that adding some coral might distract the Wrasse. Any truth to this?
<I have not heard the coral thing before, myself. I would simply observe carefully and take action if necessary.>
Thanks for your help.
Ellen Peskin
<My pleasure! Regards, Scott F.>

Re: Sixline Terror (Cont'd.)   8/16/06
Dear Scott,
<Hello again!>
Thanks so much for your quick response!!
<You're quite welcome>
When you suggest a possible intervention (if time alone doesn't fix this), exactly what does that entail?
<By intervention, I mean removing either the Wrasse or the Firefish.>
I've actually tried to trap the offending Wrasse, first with a commercial fish trap & then with a modified 2L soda bottle (per the recommendation of Mr. LFS).  Neither worked as the Wrasse is way too slick for this. Never went near either. Short of removing all of the rock & completely disrupting the tank, what recourse have I?
<Unfortunately, you hit it on the head. You do need to either remove the fish or the decor to get at the fish! Admittedly, either is a pleasant thing to do.>
Granted, I only left the traps in for a couple of days.  If left in longer, might the Wrasse eventually be fooled?
<Eventually, he may get used to the presence of the trap, which can, of course, work in your favor. You could keep placing food in the trap and the fish may get used to it over time.>
Thanks again for all of your help!!!
Ellen Peskin
<My pleasure, Ellen. Regards, Scott F.>

Fishes not getting along... Pseudocheilinus and Liopropoma incomp.  - 05/22/2006
Hi
  I just recently added a mystery wrasses to my reef aquarium. All was fine for the first two days, but now the mystery wrasses is chasing my swales Swissguard Basslet all around the tank.
<Mmm, yes... occupy a similar niche...>
I did my research before buying the wrasses and all the websites said they were compatible.
<A relative term to put this mildly, simply>
I don't want to lose either fish because they are both expensive, but the Basslet keeps swimming right through my anemone to try and get away. I can see the anemone having a very tasty treat at my expense. Is there any way to make the two get along. I have had the Basslet for about 8 months and he is probably twice as big as the wrasse. Can't we all just get along?
<Mmm... no plagiarizing please...>
There is also lots of overhangs, bolt holes, and rock levels for both fish. With the wrasse being the new edition you'd think the Basslet would chase him out of the territory. HELP ME PLEASE!    
  Jessica
<It is possible that by temporarily isolating one of these two (not easy to catch... to put this mildly, simply...) and leaving in a perforated screw top container or a floating plastic colander in the system for a week or two, that such a change will be effected. Otherwise, I would be permanently separating these. Bob Fenner>

Peppermint shrimp to rid Aiptasia ? Or feed a wrasse?  - 2/4/2006
Hello to the crew !
                          I have a relatively simple 50 gallon reef, which has slowly been over run with Aiptasia. I went to my LFS and was told peppermint shrimp should do the trick, so I purchased three of them. The following day I looked for them and they are no where to be found ?
<Maybe>
I'm wondering what could have happened to them. I only have two fish, one being a yellow tang and the other a six-line wrasse.
<The last could have consumed them>
Do either of these fish have shrimp on the menu ?
<Yep>
I also lost a cleaner shrimp about two months ago, which I had for approximately one year. One day he was there, the next gone. Any clues ? What about the possibility of a bristle worm ? If one of these guys is the culprit, what is the best way to deal with my quickly spreading Aiptasia problem ?
<See WWM re... Bob Fenner>
                                                                                                                    Thanks for the input.
                                                                                                                                                   Trever from Santa Barbara, Ca.

The Legend of the Predatory Six-Line  - 2/4/2006
Hello gang,
<Hi Fred.>
your site and books ;-) have been invaluable to me and I thank you again (and ahead of time).
<Quite welcome.>
My issue at hand is my skunk cleaner shrimp. He is wonderful and cool but he is constantly stepping on my zoos, mushrooms, yellow polyps and candy cane coral.
<Sounds like normal Lysmata behavior to me.>
This causes them to never be fully open for very long. In addition he steals whatever food they collect.
<Ditto on the above comment.>
I cannot use the inverted soda bottle method because my corals are far to spread out, it would be easier to place him in a soda bottle (which of course isn't happening). I've thought about giving him away and replacing him with a six line wrasse.
<For what? These wrasses are not “cleaners”, they will not remove parasites nor dead tissue from your other animals. A neon goby would be a much better choice for this.>
I've read that the six line would eat my only hermit crab and eventually eat my snails.
<No they stay relatively small for wrasses, your hermits and herbivorous snails are safe generally speaking. The six-line wrasse is much more of a threat to your micro-fauna and ‘pod population than it is your “clean-up” crew.>
So to those who keep six lines, what do you do about algae?
<See above, and remember live animals are not the only way to keep algae at bay, look into refugiums and nutrient control in general.>
I'm afraid that without my team of snails my tank will be over run with algae. Will the six line really eat 2" turbo snails?
<No.>
Or is he more of a danger to tiny snails?
<Very tiny snails, such as those “pyramid” snails that afflict Tridacnids…many clam keepers love six-lines for this reason.>
I have a 55 with zoos, mushrooms, yellow polyps, candy cane and a short tentacle plate. Current inhabitants are a Coral Beauty, 2 Scissortail
gobies, red legged hermit crab, few assorted snails. I'd like to add two ocellaris clowns a six line and a fridmani Pseudochromis sans the skunk
cleaner shrimp of course. Any thoughts?
<I would skip the fridmani, I’d say your full up after the addition of the clowns and the wrasse.>
You guys ROCK!!!!!
<Thank you.>
Fred
<Adam J.>

Mystery Wrasse and Masudes Hog... Incomp. of Pseudocheilinus and Bodianus spp.    4/8/06
I am getting a Mystery Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus ocellatus) tomorrow and want to know if I can add him to a 90 gallon reef tank.
<This is a very gentle species, genus...>
I have a 4" Bodianus masudai in a 90 gallon along with a few other fish.
<In the same tank?... Might be a problem>
The masudai has only been aggressive to one other fish (a Halichoeres chrysus that is no longer in the 90 gallon.) Otherwise he seems to leave everything else alone.
I also have a 58 gallon reef tank that is only 2 months old and has two Tangerine Skunk Clowns (Amphiprion sandaracinos) and a Candy Hog (Bodianus bimaculatus).
<The genus Bodianus, Hogfishes can be quite territorial...>
I would really rather put the Mystery Wrasse in my 90, it is much more established, and in a more prominent area of the house, but I hate to take a chance with a $200 fish.
What is your advice?
Thanks,
Bill Edgel
<... To place this fish in yet another system... not with a Bodianus/alpha fish present... too similar in appearance, users of similar niche... Likely to be trouble in either tank here. Research before you buy... Bob Fenner>

Nasty Six-Line Wrasse - 5/2/2006
Hello to all the Wet Web Media Gurus-
<<HA! Happy helpers, :).>>
I have developed a problem with my two favorite fish- both wrasses.  After recently re-entering the hobby, I have been operating a 30 gallon reef tank for about a year.  Parameters of the tank are:
76 degrees F
PH 8.1
SPG 1.024
All my tests show that ammonia, nitrite/trate, calcium, alkalinity, etc. are good and consistent.
<<Numbers are always helpful.>>
I do a 5 gallon water change every week.
<<Good to hear.>>
The tank has live sand and rock, a substandard protein skimmer (upgraded SeaClone 100),
<<Ouch>>
a power head for circulation, some air stones for aeration, and a three stage trickle filter with a sponge, carbon, and bio-balls (which I just heard are bad???).
<<Not BAD, just not a favorite of many.>>
The tank is crowded- residents listed are in the order added:
1 blue/green Chromis
1 cleaner shrimp
1 peppermint shrimp
2 small snails
1 fairy wrasse
<<Many species possible.>>
mushrooms
1 small clown fish (1 1/2")
lawnmower blenny
<<Tank is much too small for this guy.>>
2 turbo snails
1 hammer coral
2" bubble tip anemone
1 six-line wrasse
3 feather duster worms
Also, looks like there are some zoos, small brittles, a hermit crab, and unfortunately a tree or colt coral that all came in as hitchhikers.  Now before you yell at me - I realize the errors of my ways and I am currently in the process of setting up a 72 gallon tank to house these guys.
<<You read my mind!  Are you running proper light/feeding the anemone?>>
Here's my problem:  The six-line has been bullying the fairy wrasse.
<<Not uncommon.>>
She has marks on her body and a small piece of her fin is nipped.
<<Poor girl.>>
I've pulled her out of the display and put her into a 10 gallon quarantine tank.  I've tried giving the six-line a "time-out" in the quarantine, rearranging the tank, etc.  Should I even attempt to put my poor beat up fairy into the 72 gallon with the six-line?  I suspect that the current crowded tank is exacerbating the bullying problem.
<<I agree.>>
I'd like to keep both of them if possible but I really don't want to keep the fairy in quarantine for the rest of her life.
Please advise.
<<Get the larger tank set up ASAP.  Introduce both fish at the same time, and watch them.  You may need to choose one over the other, but my guess is larger quarters will go a long way here.>>
Thanks,
Stephanie D.
<<Glad to help.  Lisa.>>

Lined wrasses & compatibility
Hi Bob,
Thanks very much for your help earlier this week.
I am broadening my search for my community tank, 65 gallon, (36 long x 18 wide x 24 deep), 40+ pounds live rock, etc as I emailed a couple of days ago.
<Ah, good>
Instead of Chalk basses, I am considering the Six-line and Four-line (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia and Pseudocheilinus tetrataenia) wrasses. I
did not see any specific reference to these here. From what I have read, I should keep just one wrasse?
<Yes, good fishes, a section for them (and most labrid genera of use to aquarists on the WWM site>
Would they be compatible with a Coral Beauty Angel, Pearly Jawfish, maybe a Springer's Dottyback?
Katherine Steichen Rosing
<I would only place one of one or the other. Bob Fenner>

Six line wrasse compatibility
Hello,  I have a question on Six Line Wrasse compatibility. I have a 29 gal tank with two False Percula clowns, four Nassarius snails, 4 Blue Legged Hermit Crabs, a Emerald Green Crab, a group of small Star Polyps, one False Anemone, one large Feather Duster, and several small feather dusters and  white worms with red plumes.
<all fine... but keep an eye on that crab as it matures and make sure to keep it fed if microalgae wanes ... or murders will occur and it won't be the butler who did it>
I like the small dusters and worms that came on the live rock and am concerned about their well being. Will the Wrasse eat any of the aforementioned?  
<possible, but not a huge risk>
I wanted something small that would swim around the rock that I've taken great pains in setting up to provide hiding spaces and good current flow.
<Hmmm.. a fairy wrasse (many species) would be a much safer and peaceful choice here. Six-lines are wonderful but ferocious. There's a greater chance it will kill your clownfish than featherdusters in time>
My clowns swim close to the top and the tank needs something swimming around the rocks. I am also concerned about a few smallish Bristle Worms in the tank that at some point may go after ......anything.
<no worries... bristle worms are great for sand ecology. They only flourish if you overfeed, under skim, lack of water changes, etc>
Wrasses should keep these in check.
<correct>
If not a Wrasse, have you any suggestions?
<besides Fairy wrasses, Firefish and delightful for the aesthetic>
Tell Anthony, that the folks at Elmer's Aquarium say " Hello". Thanks!
<excellent to hear! Cheers, my friend>
Steve Scott( A frequent Customer at Elmer's, and dedicated reader of your fine website!). You folks saved me a lot of frustration and probably many a fish life!
<great to hear it... kind regards. Anthony

Marine Livestocking (Lined Wrasses, Angels)
Hi guys,
<Hello>
I'm setting up a small reef tank in a 50G Uniquarium. I'm planning on making it a clownfish habitat minus the anemones. I'll be using leathers or hairy mushrooms as surrogates. My question is around fish compatibility. I'll have 3 ocellaris clowns and one small yellow or purple tang (he will be transplanted to a 125G later). Could I keep a four lined wrasse, a six lined wrasse, and an orchid Dottyback together? I'm using Live rock, a deep sandbed, and skimmer for filtration. Please let me know.
<Mmm, not a good idea in this size system to have more than just one of these fishes. The Lined Wrasses don't mix by and large (except in very large systems), and too often Dottybacks and they will fight when crowded as well... I would leave off with all three here if your main desire is to have a peaceful "Clown tank", or if set on one of the three, look for a more easygoing tank-bred pseudochromid species.>
Question #2 - I have some smaller bristleworms in the Fiji rock that I'm not concerned about, however I spotted a larger one the other night- 3-4". Does he need to go, or do I leave him in until I find a reason to remove him? 
<The latter IMO>
On a similar note, I have a hairy crab that came with the rock, and I don't believe he is an emerald. All he seems to do is graze algae. Go or stay?
<Hold off on its removal for now as well>
Final question, I'm setting up a FOWLR - 125G - 72X18X23. I'm looking for a large angel to serve as the center piece for this system. I'm evaluating scribbled, Map, Asfur, Imperator, and French. Which of these would I be able to keep, and which would grow too large for the system?
<All listed could be kept for a while as young (till about six inches or so), the French the longest, but none could, will live to be full-size, age in this size system (need at least twice the gallonage). Look to the Angelfish genera Centropyge, Genicanthus instead>
I will most likely set up a 30G refugium in addition to the existing Wet/Dry which I will convert to a plain sump. This should give me ~180G of capacity.
<Lots of good ideas here. I encourage you to do a bit more delving, thinking over the stocking mix. Bob Fenner>
Thanks,
Chris

Pseudocheilinus ocellatus eating shrimp - 2/15/03
What should I do with a Pseudocheilinus ocellatus (5 bar mystery) wrasse that has an appetite for shrimp, particularly cleaner shrimp. <Yeah. A little research would have helped here as this is not uncommon with this fish. In any event, I think someone has to go.> I'm not sure he's worth it now after ordering it. <Sorry to hear that. Such a beautiful animal> Anyone at WWM possibly interested in a donation for the cost of shipping? <Wow. That is very nice of you. What about a nice LFS or a local aquarium which in turn might really need the donation? Maybe you can get money or credit for him? Maybe try trading him at a local reef/fish club? Thank you much for the offer, but I would definitely check around locally first. Make lemonade since you have a lemon, so to speak! If not, let us know maybe someone on the crew might want it. Thanks again, Michael.>

Wrasse And A Bass(let)!
Would I be successful trying to put a Basslet in the same 75g reef tank with a Pseudocheilinus wrasse? I'm worried about potential conflicts, although the Basslet doesn't get out much! At times, the Pseudocheilinus wrasse seems to be somewhat of an aggressive little one.
<Yep-some of those little P. hexataenia (Sixline Wrasses) can be feisty little guys! Make sure that the Basslet that you're putting in there, however, is one of the more "sociable" ones...As long as there is sufficient "territory" for everyone in there, things should be okay, in my opinion. I've kept this combination of fishes before without incident...Also, make sure that the fishes are within similar size ranges, this usually keeps a "balance of terror"! >
Thank you so much for lending us aspiring wannabe marine biologists and zoologists a hand!
<And thanks for thinking of us fish nerds! Hope that things work out great! Regards, Scott F>

Wrasse and Shrimp
I recently purchased a Pseudocheilinus ocellatus and he is attacking my two cleaner shrimp. Is this normal?
<Not uncommon>
I expected cleaner shrimp to have anonymity from all fish.
<Not so>
Did I make a mistake by feeding him fresh cut up shrimp to start him feeding? He just bit one of the feelers off of one, and they are both hugging the side of the tank.
<They should be separated post haste. Bob Fenner>

-6-lined wrasse problem-
<Good morning, JasonC here...>
Thank you for your time reading my mail, I have a question, couple days ago I bought a 6-lined wrasse from a LFS, very good looking (they all look the same, I know) and healthy, I bought him is because I have an outbreak of LOTS of little worms, looks like little brittle worm, around 5mm or so, and I caught 2 big brittle worm recently also.
He is intended for my 2 months old 10G tank, all water parameters are normal, there are couple corals, a yellow watchman goby, a cleaner shrimp, an emerald crab, 2 red-legged hermit crab, and couple snails, all these are doing very good.
My problem is, when the wrasse was introduced, he always like to swim near the goby's home, which is a LR cave, and the goby always come out to defend and I have seen the goby dash to the wrasse to try to bit him, after 3 days, I think they finally settle down, the size of the goby and the wrasse are pretty much the same, around 1.5"-2". But today I notice one of the eye on the wrasse have popped out a little bit and both fins have rot a bit also, looks like bite marks, so I believe those are caused by the fighting between both, btw the goby is totally fine, the wrasse still eat and swim around like normal, he likes to swim around the coral a lot. So I am wondering do I need to take him out and put into a QT tank and let him recover? <That is the 'best' choice but if things have genuinely settled down, would heal about the same speed in the tank where it is now, provided it's not getting picked on. You do understand that this system is small... perhaps too small for two territorial fish.> or just let him in there to recover slowly? I have read through your site about aggression and pop-eye symptom, and I know I can use Epsom salt to treat the eye, but is it necessary? <Not necessary... will just speed healing.> can I put the salt into the main tank without affecting the corals? <Hmm... again due to tank size, I would lean towards not adding any additional salts.>
I don't want the wrasse to get worse, or with any secondary bacterial infections, but I was thinking if I take him out right now it will stress him out even more, coz I just bought him from the LFS couple days ago, and even if he recovered in the QT tank and once I introduce him back to the 10G tank again, will the goby attack him again? <Probably.> the wrasse seems don't even fight back, don't know why, and is there anything I can do to prevent this from happening? <Get a larger tank.> coz I am thinking to get a small clown also, I want to get this solved before another fish (last one) is added, I don't want it get into a war zone between them. <The [right] clown would be a safer bet as far as aggression goes, but this system is too small to house more than two small fish -take your pick.>
Thank you for any suggestions that you can give and really great site that you have there, I read it a lot and I have learned a LOT, thanks again.
Michael
<Cheers, J -- >

Sixline With An Attitude!
Hello to all WWM Crew from a rather cold UK!!
<Hi there! Scott F. with you today!>
Just a quick question if you can spare a sec to advise.
<Glad to...>
I purchased a six line wrasse from my LFS about two weeks ago and he was fine, a nice peaceful addition..... Until now.
<Uhh-Ohh...>
The tank consists of a Coral Beauty, shrimp goby and his Tiger pistol shrimp pal and a Firefish in addition to the Wrasse. The tank is 40gallons with Live Rock, a cleanup crew of a few snails and hermits.
<Sounds like a neat mix!>
Up till about Sunday, they were all getting along fine, but now the Wrasse has taken a disliking to the firefish. Whenever the firefish moves he darts at him and chases him. I'm worried that the stress is going to tip the Firefish over the edge!!! My LFS said the Wrasse was a fine addition to the tank and was not bothered about having any territory (so not aggressive), but I'm not so sure?
<Well, I love Sixline Wrasses! They are a lot of fun to watch, are gorgeous, and have great personalities. Unfortunately, you may encounter an individual (like you did!) who takes a disliking to another fish (usually a more docile species) and pesters it relentlessly>
Can you offer any advice to try and curb his aggression? I've tried re-arranging the rock but this doesn't seem to have had any effect. The next course of action is to fish him out and take him back. The only problem is I do like this fish and I'm really happy with the way the tank is looking so it's a shame to have to re-arrange the rock to try and catch him stressing all parties concerned. But the Firefish comes first and he was the first in the tank so please any help on my dilemma would be much appreciated.
Many thanks
Martin.
<Well, Martin- it certainly is a difficult dilemma! I'm afraid that I don't have any new and unique secret techniques for this problem! A thought here is that you could add another Sixline, as this could "distract" the resident Sixline. On the other hand, if could prove to be  disaster, particularly for the newcomer. My other tried-and-true solution is to (gulp) re-arrange the rock. Not a fun thing to do, but it often works. On the other hand, if it doesn't- you will have gone to all that trouble, only to have the same problem, and an aquascape that you may not like as much! In the end, removing one of the two parties may be the only ay to restore some sort of peace in the tank. It's your call, so do consider the alternatives carefully! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

Sixline Wrasse -A Real Gas!
Hello Scott,
<Hi there!>
Before I buy a 6 line wrasse, I would like to know if my inverts are safe???
<Well, these fish are generally model citizens, and real characters! However, larger ones can occasionally munch on some of the smaller shrimp that we tend to keep in aquaria from time to time. On the whole, I would not be overly-concerned here, with these caveats. Enjoy! Regards, Scott F.>

Pass On The Wrasse?
Dear Scott,
<Hey there!>
Thanx again.  Just wonder, as you didn't mention in your reply, about the 6 line-wrasse.
<Oops- must have been sniffing too much coral glue last night! Sorry..>
Do you think it will be a problem with the hermits and snails??  
<Not to the extent of other wrasses. In fact, Sixlines are good fishes to have if you keep clams, because they are known predators of snails that can bore into clam mantles, causing damage>
Basically, wondered how the wrasse would work out with hermit crabs and snails and if it could get along with a goby as they both seem to like the substrate areas.
<They might prey on smaller snails and hermits, but are usually very peaceful with other fishes. You'll just have to consider the possibilities and decide what works best for you>
If you have time let me know what you think.  If you're too busy I understand.
<Never too busy!>
Actually, I'm not sure how you manage to answer so many emails in one day!  You must be a quick reader or typist!  
<Well, there are about 20 of us crazy fish nerds on call, so we manage just fine! Besides, this is FUN!>
Regards, Greg
<Any time! Take care! Scott F.>
ps If what is a "Sea Swirl"?  (I'm a Sea Swirl man, myself)  If I want the sinusoidal wave thing here could you send to China and could I call to give a VISA number so it's not going out over the internet (not sure yet if I wanna get one now, but just in case).

Pseudocheilinus hexataenia Question:
Hello,
<Hi! Ryan Bowen helping you today>
I'm new. <Great! Welcome> I've been reading a lot of your advice today. I noticed that someone contradicted something and now I'm not sure what's right and what's wrong. <So common in this hobby!> We need to buy a sixline wrasse to save our clam from Pyram snails. <Or you could quarantine your livestock prior to introduction!> The problem is Scott F. says their great fish usually very safe in a reef tank and may pick on shy fish like Firefish, however; one of the other guys said they are ferocious. So who is right? <Both, because they owned different wrasses.  Wrasses have lots of personality, and each fish is truly an individual.  Perhaps some careful observation of your new tenant prior to purchase will lend some insight into his personality.  With this fish, and some other marine fishes, you've just got to have a little luck with a good specimen.  I don't see this becoming a huge problem, but buy a youngan' to be certain.  Good luck, Ryan>   Thanx for any help you can send our way. Keep up the good work. Rina

Will His Hermits Become "Feeder Crabs?" (9/8/04)
Hello All, <Hi. Steve Allen Today>
Question as it is simple... I love my 100 plus blue leg hermit crabs. They keep the hair algae in control... well actually they removed it all. I wanted to buy a 12 line wrasse (looks like the 6 line but green in color) what will be the chance that it we decide that blue legs are taste? <Members of this genus are well-known as predators of crustaceans. I'd say there's a pretty good chance it will enjoy a hermit crab banquet over time.> I know anything can happen with fish... My Lemon Peel Angle suddenly took out my cleaner shrimp, weird hey? <Edible is edible.> Took me awhile to figure out what was killing them until I purchased another one and "BAM" took the eyes off <ouch!> and the dinner was served. I would like to know if I get the wrasse will the hermits days be numbered? <Quite probably.> Or am I better not going there and let my hermits keep the hair algae out of my tank... <If you love your hermits and appreciate their handiwork, why take a chance? Go with something that has a much lower probability of munching them.> Thanks much, Paul

Six-Line and Micro Diversity
I bought a JBL nano reef for my office and cycled it with live rock and live sand from my display tank. The rock was teeming with 'pods, bristle and
other worms, and Mysis shrimp. The cycling is over and I have survived the cycle and the diatoms stage so it is time for stocking. Other than the above, the tank has some red mushrooms, assorted snails, and a peppermint shrimp.
I purchased a tiny Percula and six-line for the tank and they have finished their 5 week quarantine.
I just moved the Percula into the nano tank but am having second thoughts about moving the six-line. My question is simple will he/she wreak havoc on my micro-diversity or can some of it survive with him/her in the nano. The Percula and the six-line got along well with each other in the quarantine tank so I am pretty sure that they will get along in the nano but I am concerned about a loss of micro-diversity. My other option is to putting him/her into my display tank.
What do the WetWebMedia sages recommend???
Thanks.
Mark
***Hello Mark,
The short answer to your question is yes, a sixline can and will wreak havoc on the creatures you mention. In a larger tank this is not always the case, however in such cramped surroundings it's a given. This fish is a micropredator! Secondly, I wouldn't put a six line wrasse in such a small tank due to space reasons. It may be a small fish, but it needs swimming room. Mine uses every inch of his 48x24x24 tank. 12 gallons is a bit to cramped for this fish, especially as an adult.
Cheers
Jim***
I would like some advice about the impact of a six-line wrasse on the worms,
'pods and Mysis shrimp in my nano reef.

Shrimp vs. wrasse 6/30/04
Hello-Question? My sixline wrasse ate most of my cleaner shrimps legs.  This all started right after he molted.
<Shrimps and wrasses are like sheep and wolves.  Also, shrimp are very vulnerable post molt.>
I have him in a net box to keep him out of harms way, but I was wondering-will the shrimps legs grow back?  I been trying to feed him by my hand, which is not working.  So I dunno if I should just keep him till he dies or take him back to the fish store.
<If the shrimp is able to take food, it may grow some of the legs back, but you won't see them until the next molt.  I don't see any benefit to returning it to your LFS.>
Also my firefish, although he is active and eats a lot, looks very malnourished. I feed him formula one frozen food. Is there anything else I can do? I am guessing that my wrasse is a very aggressive fish and my tank may be just too small.
<Firefish really benefit from several feedings per day. They also don't compete well with aggressive feeders like wrasses.  You may have to give one or the other up.  Best Regards.  Adam C.>

Wrasse Behavior Question
Hi:)
A quick question about the eight line flasher <?> wrasse.  If I order a male and a female can they be introduced together to the same tank without aggressive behavior?  In other words do they always get along or could one pick on the other?  Thanks for your time.......
Janey
<Hi Janey.  In any captive system, certainly the smaller ones (100 gallons or less) there is a chance that ANY fish can be tormented by another.  But, however, male and female wrasses can pair up.  I have kept a small harem of flasher wrasses myself.  In 150 gallons, one male and 5 females were peaceful. I'm not sure how large your system is, but I'd arrange the ratio similarly.  
Thanks,
Ryan>

Sixline Wrasse
Hi Bob, <Hi Pam, MacL here with you today.>
We have a 20 gallon salt water tank, new to us (we have had it maybe 2 weeks) but the guy before us had it for 3 years. <Marvelous, Sounds quite lovely.>  It contains a 4 inch long maroon clown, a small green Chromis (spelling?), a HUGE brittle star (8 inch legs on a half-dollar sized body),<What color is the brittle star, if its Green that could be a  potential problem.>  1 red legged hermit crab, 2 black/white stripped leg crab, a few mushroom corals, and some other "stuff".  We were having a problem with flatworms on our coral, so we purchased a Sixline wrasse two days ago and tossed him in to take care of that.  We also have an abundance of bristleworms and hoped he would take care of that too.
Ok so, problem is this -- The little cubby that the wrasse sleeps in at night... the bristleworms attack him!! We watch them sting him and he flinches and writhes, but he never moves to another spot. <Dang, how big are the bristles? Is he large enough to get them? I know Dottybacks will eat bristles but I have never heard of a six line eating them. I know that they will eat flatworms at leas some types. Most of the time the six lines will choose a place to stay for a night and then they will move the next day after finding another safe place.>   We are afraid the worms will kill him.  He looked so haggard this morning.  Any words of wisdom? <An arrow crab will also eat the bristleworms. Or you can catch them with tweezers and remove them from the tank. Normally bristleworms aren't bad creatures, they clean and remove detritus.>
Thanks,
Pam

Sixline wrasse to consume bristle worms
Hi,
I know bristle worms attack clams, so I intend to put a 6-line wrasse in the tank to protect it. Will he try to feed off from the clam also?
<< No, six line wrasse are very clam safe.  You may want to keep the clam off the bottom of your tank if you are worried about worms. >>
<<  Blundell  >>

- Six-line Wrasse Question -
Hi, just a quick question ... ( I know, they all start out quick) - anyway, I have a 90 gallon set up with good water parameters that has been up for 3-4 years.  I thought I was set - was happy with my little wet friends (and they with each other so I thought)  and had no plans on changing/adding anything.  
I've been reading about the six lined wrasse - and was wondering if mine could have killed my small blue tang and dwarf angel?  I've read that they are normally "peaceful" with other species if not very outgoing and active fish (and really pretty too!) and recently learned can be a little crappy at times <Do you mean "crabby" as in grumpy? Then yes... six line wrasses can seem a little vindictive at times.> - I did notice that their fins were pretty chewed up just before my crabs got to make a meal out of them but have been trying to figure out why - no signs of disease (eating well, very active) - and since I do watch them off and on during the day (I work from home) - there didn't seem to be any conflict problems (though, who knows at night).  The tang was very small (the newest and was my planned last addition) - smaller than the six line ...  but my dwarf angel was larger (about 4 - 4.5") and had been in the tank for a about 5 months prior to the addition of the six line. <It is quite possible... certainly for the small tang, have seen six line wrasses hassle other fish to death, although never a pygmy angel. I suppose it's possible, but could have easily been from other causes.> I have a good amount of live rock - (not really sure just how much in lbs - but covers a good portion of the tank) - I just replaced the angel (it was a really nice multi-colored angel - silvery white with bright blue & yellow on it's head and fins...but don't have the funds for another one - a little pricey) - with a coral beauty.  Anyway, could this little guy (about 3" so about full grown now) - be the trouble maker? <At this size, very possible.> Suddenly deciding that he's "a grown-up" now? <Or perhaps just not to be trifled with.> One of my two Percs seems to be in the same boat now (the smaller of the 2)...
I suspect the answer is yes, but just wondering your opinion and any suggestions if you feel he is the problem. <Would spend the weekend watching the tank from a small distance so you have a scope of most everything going on - being there with your face pressed against the glass may not reveal the behavior. If you see the aggression, then you'll know the truth.> They were all in the tank together for a while before any problems started to sneak up. <Attitudes change over time.> Thanks
I currently have:
lots of hermit crabs / snails
2 cleaner shrimp (I know - could be food someday ...)
1 blue damsel 3"
2 false percula clowns ( 1 @ 2" the other at about 3.5" )
1 six lined wrasse (about 2.5 - 3" )
1 yellow Coris (4-4.5") (not really the Coris species - and yes, the do get along just fine)
1 fridmani (??) Pseudochromis (about 3")
1 Coral Beauty (newest addition) (about 4")
(PS - your site has helped me greatly in the past in my selection of fishes and really helped curb that impulse purchase before  researching - so my many thanks !)
Oh, and what would you think about a Christmas wrasse in this mix?  I've read that they are also generally on the "peaceful" side - (the Halichoeres ornatissimus). <Yes, but they need space - tend to zoom from end to end of a system and will likely be cramped in this system. I would recommend against it.> I love their color and really like wrasse, but know that compatibility can be an issue with multiple of the same genus. <I have three wrasses in my tank - they don't cause each other any trouble, but still... space is a factor. If I were you I'd pick a smaller wrasse.> This will definitely max out my tank -  :-)
<Cheers, J -- >

Tanks for the Marine Answers
Thanks so much for your quick response and advice! I will definitely watch them more closely (from a distance) to see if there is a problem. Though I have noticed recently - which is exactly what you've said - that the little six line does seem to have the attitude of "don't mess with me!" but not outright harassing - anyway, many thanks - again! 
< Not sure who helped you, but on their behalf I'll say "you're welcome" and we hope we helped. >
< Blundell >

Evil Sixline Wrasse - 08/08/2005
I added a sixline wrasse to my 29 gallon reef a few months ago that contained a common clown, two skunk cleaner shrimps, an emerald crab, a handful of hermit crabs, some cerith snails, etc.
<Sounds good....  so far....  The word "evil" in your e-mail's subject leads me to believe that all did not *stay* good....>
Earlier this summer, when I returned from a week's vacation, I discovered that the sixline, after being in my tank for only two weeks, had killed both cleaner shrimps, the emerald crab, and most of my hermit crab population.
<Yikes!  Though, I have heard/read of them taking out shrimp, on occasion....  I personally prefer the fourline, P. tetrataenia, which is reportedly less apt to mess with your crusties.>
Also, my "pod" population has dramatically fallen,
<Very much to be expected.>
as well as the cerith and dwarf brittlestar numbers.
<I'm a touch surprised at the snail, but the little brittles - yeah, I imagine they might be snacked upon.>
I have seen my sixline nipping at snails and the surviving hermits and am sure that this other decline in microfauna can be attributed to him. These fish are supposedly reef safe,
<Well, to a degree, yes.  Mandarinfish are "reef safe", as well, but will consume enough pods and such to wipe out all but very large systems in rather short amounts of time.  I think what is commonly meant by "reef safe" is that the animal is unlikely to harass corals.>
and I have only heard of one other "bad" sixline that kills fish.
<They do seem quite fish-safe.>
Is it safe to say that my fish cannot be trusted around any other invertebrates?
<I would say this is a correct assumption.>
Mine seems to be best of buddies with my clownfish....  
<And should continue to be so, should you choose to keep him.  I doubt you will see any aggression between these two.>
A reef just isn't the same without invertebrates running around....  
<Agreed.  For this reason, I am not considering a sixline in my system.>
Thanks for your time.
<And thanks for writing in.  Next time, do be certain to read as much as you can about a potential addition to your tank prior to adding it; there is much information on the web and even on WWM about this and other Pseudocheilinus' tastes for inverts.  Wishing you well,  -Sabrina>

Wrasse And Gramma Compatibility - 08/04/2005
Would a sixline wrasse and a royal Gramma likely be compatible in a 90 gallon tank?  
<Yes, highly likely.  I have a pal with a fourline and a royal Gramma in a 55g, and over the past year that he's had them, there have been no compatibility issues whatsoever.  There are, however, exceptions to every rule.>
Thanks.
<Wishing you well,  -Sabrina>

Fish Compatibility 8/4/05
Would a sixline wrasse and a royal Gramma likely be compatible in a 90 gallon tank?  Thanks.
<Hi Jon... Provided your fish load is low, you shouldn't run into any serious situations with these two particular fish. Both do have the potential to be somewhat aggressive, therefore it would be best if you add them as juveniles simultaneously. - Ali>

Six-line wrasse and crab compatibility 8/4/05
Hi, <Hello, Jed>
I recently inherited a six-line wrasse from a friend getting out of the hobby. Being the fool I am I happily took the wrasse knowing little about it other than it was reef safe and moderately aggressive. The aggression should not be a problem but I now have learned that a few lined wrasses will eat hermit crabs. Now here is my problem I have a small number of scarlet hermit crabs (five to six) and I am worried about them being eaten. I can't give the fish back because it means a lot to my friend that I keep her favorite fish, and she wants visitation rights. The wrasse is only two inches long but I am still worried that the wrasse may eat the crabs which I also want to keep. So do you think a two inch six-line wrasse will pose a threat to my scarlet hermit crabs? <Jed, the six lined wrasse should be just fine with the crabs, they are reef safe.  James (Salty Dog)>
Thank you very much,<You're welcome>
Jed