Fin's Fish Guide
The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse (Labroides phthirophagus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse is a small wrasse (Labridae) endemic to the reefs around Hawaii in the central Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender body with a bright yellow, purple and black longitudinal pattern. It keeps cleaning stations on the reef, where larger fish come to have parasites and dead skin removed, which it picks off. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse?
The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse live?
The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Johnston I., Hawaii
How big does the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse get?
The Hawaiian cleaner wrasse grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labroides
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hawaiian cleaner wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.