How do you care for a six-line wrasse?

Reviewed by the Fast Aquatics husbandry team · Updated May 2026
Quick answerSix-line wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia) need 30+ gallon reef tank, 76-82°F, 1.025 salinity, varied carnivore diet (mysis, brine, pellets), and reef-safe-with-caution stocking. Add LAST in the stocking order due to mild aggression.

Full answer

The six-line wrasse (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia) is a popular reef-safe wrasse known for eating pyramidellid snails, AEFW, and small flatworms. Tank size: 30+ gallons reef setup. Parameters: 76-82°F, 1.025-1.026 salinity, alk 8-9 dKH, full reef-spec parameters. Diet: carnivore - feed varied frozen mysis + brine shrimp + krill, soaked in Selcon 2-3x weekly. Will accept high-quality pellets after acclimation. Compatibility: reef-safe with caution. Mildly aggressive toward smaller wrasses, fairy wrasses, and slow-moving fish. Add LAST in the stocking order to disrupt established territory. Hosting behavior: sleeps wedged into rockwork at night - provides natural pest control during the day. Lifespan: 4-8 years in well-kept reef tanks.

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