Another Wrasse question...

[BestMomEver]

When my tank is clear of all disease (maybe September) I want to purchase a few wrasses. There are quite a few threads about compatibility between Wrasse species but I can’t find a thread about Wrasse compatibility with shrimp. Currently I have a six line Wrasse that is a model citizen. He lives with a pistol/goby pair, a cleaner shrimp, a peppermint shrimp, and a pair of teeny tiny bumblebee shrimp.

I’m not concerned about the pistol shrimp and the cleaner shrimp is nearly 2.5 inches long. The peppermint shrimp I’m not sure about. I do worry abt the bumblebee shrimp. The only good thing is that they can climb in the tiniest little holes.

Opinions or experience please....

 

[tdileo]

Fairy wrasse won’t bother shrimp. Some, like melanurus or dragon wrasses can cause a problem.

 

[MIKE NY]

The issue isn’t going to be finding wrasses to be compatible with your shrimps. As mentioned flashers and many of the smaller fairies are good examples. The issue I believe probably is going to be the aggressiveness of the six line....especially as it matures. ...Just my experience with them.

 

[Jesterrace]

Currently I have a six line Wrasse that is a model citizen.

Famous last words. As mentioned in the post above they are known for simply snapping one day and going rogue. I definitely wouldn't add any other wrasses to a tank with an established 6 line, so if you want more wrasses it will have to go. Fairy Wrasses and Flasher Wrasses should be fine with your shrimp.

 

[BestMomEver]

Thanks for the words of wisdom. Ahhhh... the Six-line Wrasse. So far, he is fine. He was nearly killed by a Diadem Basslet and is still pretty shy. I hope he doesn’t turn into a beast. He’s so freakin cool. I had a full grown Orange-back Fairy Wrasse and they never looked at one another (Orange-back got velvet and died). So, can I add peaceful fish of other species (fire fish) or am I going to have to go semi-aggressive (chomis/dottyback)?

 

[eatbreakfast]

Sixlines have a strong intolerance of other wrasses, particularly the gentler fairy and flasher wrasses that would be safe with the shrimp.

 

[evolved]

^yup

So long as the sixline is present, there are no options for additional reef-safe wrasses on the table.