The Six-line Wrasse, Six-lined Wrasse, Sixstripe Wrasse, scientifically known as Pseudocheilinus hexataenia, is a captivating fish species found in the vast expanse of the marine environment. It exhibits vibrant colors and a unique body shape, making it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.
Description & Characteristics
Pseudocheilinus hexataenia is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 10.0 cm. It boasts a slender body with a slightly compressed profile, characterized by six distinct, vertical stripes that run the length of its body, hence the name. These stripes can range from yellow to orange, creating a striking visual contrast against the darker background color of the fish. This wrasse species is particularly known for its vibrant, iridescent blue head and snout, which further enhances its aesthetic appeal.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Six-line Wrasse, Six-lined Wrasse, Sixstripe Wrasse is typically found in the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic marine environments. This indicates that Pseudocheilinus hexataenia is a common inhabitant of the neritic zone, an area encompassing the shallow waters extending from the coastline to the edge of the continental shelf. This zone is characterized by its abundant sunlight penetration and relatively stable temperatures, providing favorable conditions for the Pseudocheilinus hexataenia to thrive. The depth range of this species is typically between 1.0 – 35.0 meters, showcasing its adaptability to varying water depths.
Taxonomy
The species Pseudocheilinus hexataenia belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Eupercaria incertae sedis, and Family: Labridae. This classification places it within the diverse and fascinating group of wrasses, known for their vibrant colors and unique behaviors. The Labridae family encompasses a wide variety of fish species, renowned for their intricate patterns and their role in coral reef ecosystems.
Feeding
The dietary habits of Pseudocheilinus hexataenia are quite diverse, reflecting its adaptability to different food sources available in its marine habitat. This wrasse species has been observed to feed on a wide range of invertebrates, including Brine Shrimp Nauplii, Brine Shrimps, Copepods, Daphnia salina, and Zooplankton. Additionally, Pseudocheilinus hexataenia is known to accept commercially available food items such as Dustfood, Flakes, and Frozen food (small sorts), demonstrating its capacity for adjusting to captive environments.
Image References