Six-Stripe WrassePseudocheilinus hexataenia (geographic variant)

About the Six-Stripe Wrasse

Six-stripe wrasse is functionally the same species as six-line (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia) but sometimes sold under the alternate trade name. Same behavior, same care, same aggression profile. Useful biological control for small pests.

Native range: Indo-Pacific. Wrasses (family Labridae) are one of the most diverse and successful fish families on coral reefs — approximately 600 described species worldwide, of which 40-60 are commonly available in the marine aquarium trade. The Six-Stripe Wrasse is part of the Wrasse (Labridae) - Pseudocheilinus grouping, characterized by elongated body shape, terminal-phase sex change (most species), and active reef-grazing or pest-control behavior.

Tank requirements and aquascape

Tank size: 30 gallons. Sand substrate is non-negotiable for sand-sleeping wrasse genera (Halichoeres, Macropharyngodon, Anampses) — 2-3 inches of fine pool-filter sand minimum. Rockwork should provide multiple cave entrances and tight crevices the fish can wedge into for sleeping or escape. Lid: tight-fitting, gap-free. Wrasses are the second-most-common jumping casualties in reef tanks after gobies — a single 1cm gap is enough.

Flow: moderate to moderately strong is preferred by most wrasses — they evolved on current-swept reefs. Lighting: standard reef LED works for all wrasses; the fish itself does not require special spectrum.

Diet and feeding

Carnivore — mysis, brine, copepods. Most wrasses have very high metabolic rates and need 2-3 feedings daily. Skipping feedings during business travel or vacations leads to rapid condition loss — schedule automatic feeders or vendor-trusted tank-sitters for extended absences.

Compatible tank mates

Safe: Reef-safe community.

Avoid: Other six-stripe/six-line specimens.

Breeding

Not captive bred. Most wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites — born female, transition to male as they reach social dominance in a group. Tank breeding of wrasses is rare due to the complex behaviors and pelagic egg-laying that resists captive replication.

Common problems and solutions

Same as six-line.

Frequently asked questions

Is six-stripe wrasse the same as six-line?

Yes — same species (Pseudocheilinus hexataenia). Different trade names for the same fish.

How big do six-stripe wrasses get?

About 3.5 inches at maturity.

Are six-stripe wrasses reef safe?

Yes — coral-safe; will eat small inverts and parasites.

How much do six-stripe wrasses cost?

Same as six-line: $35-70 in US trade.

Related wrasses