Four Line Wrasse

• ExerciseVery high

  A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment4–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Four Line Wrasse (Pseudocheilinus tetrataenia) is a western Pacific species reaching only about 6 to 7 cm. It is a close relative of the six line wrasse, with a magenta to purple body crossed by four bright neon-blue horizontal lines. It spends its day threading through rock crevices rather than swimming in open water. A 100 litre or larger reef tank with dense, complex rockwork suits it, at 24-27C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, with a covered top. Feed mysis, enriched brine and small pellets, though much of its intake comes from hunting live prey in the rocks. That habit is its main practical value: it eats bristleworms, small pyramidal snails and flatworms, and it is often added specifically as pest control. Be aware that it becomes territorial with age, especially toward other small wrasses and gobies, and like the six line it can turn into the tank bully in a small system. Keep one only.

• How active is a Four Line Wrasse?

  Very high. A powerful swimmer that needs a long tank and real swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Four Line Wrasse need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Four Line Wrasse need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Four Line Wrasse a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Four Line Wrasse live?

  4–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Four Line Wrasse?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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