Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse
Labroides phthirophagus
- Group: Wrasse
- Typical depth: 0–90 m
- Max size: 12 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
Found across nearly every Hawaiian reef habitat, this cleaner wrasse swims with a bobbing, flitting dance that signals other fish to hold still while it picks off their parasites. Pairs stay together, and at night it wraps itself in a balloon of mucus to sleep.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Eupercaria incertae sedis › Labridae › Labroides
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 278690.
FAQ
- How deep does the Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse live?
- The Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides phthirophagus) is typically found at 0–90 m.
- Is the Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse dangerous to divers?
- The Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse get?
- The Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse grows to about 12 cm.