How to Identify Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse

To identify Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is predominantly bright blue anteriorly, transitioning to a darker blue or black posteriorly. A prominent black stripe runs horizontally from the snout, through the eye, and along the lateral line, widening towards the caudal fin. The ventral side is typically white or pale blue.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, slender body, Bright blue and black longitudinal stripe pattern, Pointed snout, Characteristic 'dancing' swimming motion when soliciting clients

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 9 spines and 10-12 soft rays.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin, often with the black stripe extending onto it.

Pectoral fin

Transparent to pale blue pectoral fins, relatively small.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are small and located ventrally.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Stripe

   Look for the distinctive bright blue body with a prominent black stripe running from the snout to the tail, widening posteriorly.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Its slender, elongated body is characteristic.

3. 3

   Behavior

   Observe its 'cleaning station' behavior, where it 'dances' to attract larger fish and then meticulously picks off parasites from their bodies, gills, and mouths.

Explore Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse