Pseudocheilinus Wrasses: Worth it, or too Aggressive?

[Umbriel]

Lately on here, I've been reading about people not recommending the sixline wrasse (P. hexataenia) and listing horror story after horror story. I understand that it is an aggressive fish, but how aggressive does it get? I imagine its congeners (like the fourline, eightline, and the seemingly coveted mystery) are touted as just as aggressive.

My only experience with a pseudocheilinus wrasse was a sixline a couple of years ago, and I loved the fish very much. It was colorful, personable (in my humble opinion), and provided beautiful movement. However, it was the only fish in my tank, so I have no basis of comparison to how they behave with other inhabitants. I planned on getting another one someday when I try another tank; however, from personal and expert opinions, I feel very discouraged to even try.

Here's the question: are P. species wrasses only suitable with other aggressive, non-wrasse fish, or should all of them not be recommended under any circumstances?

And, if the latter's the case (which I do wonder about, with how many people I see raving about mystery wrasses), then what would be a proper alternative for those with smaller/nano tanks that run under 40 gallons (which perhaps would be a question better suited for the nano forum)? Would the only option be the possum wrasses (genus wetmorella), since I've read that flasher wrasses aren't suited for nano tanks?

Any advice you kind, knowledgeable individuals can provide would be greatly appreciated. I apologize if any of my discussion/question came off as a rant; however, I am interested in trying the genus someday without having to incite World War III in a tank.

Oh, just for measure: I don't have a tank, probably won't have one any time soon. I'm just speculating on the genus.

 

[betamed]

I've kept a few six lines and they have all been aggressive but as long as the other fish are much larger or can handle themselves then it's been fine. I gave away my last one because I've been wanting to add a leopard wrasse and I know the six line would harrass such a mild mannered fish.

 

[evolved]

I'll add my comments to your quote below:

Lately on here, I've been reading about people not recommending the sixline wrasse (P. hexataenia) and listing horror story after horror story. I understand that it is an aggressive fish, but how aggressive does it get? Generally, aggressive to very aggressive I imagine its congeners (like the fourline, eightline, and the seemingly coveted mystery) are touted as just as aggressive.
Indeed

My only experience with a pseudocheilinus wrasse was a sixline a couple of years ago, and I loved the fish very much. It was colorful, personable (in my humble opinion), and provided beautiful movement. However, it was the only fish in my tank, so I have no basis of comparison to how they behave with other inhabitants. I planned on getting another one someday when I try another tank; however, from personal and expert opinions, I feel very discouraged to even try.
They do have their place, but they're best as a single inhabitant as you had, alone in a frag tank (the perfect setting IMO), or in a very large tank.

Here's the question: are P. species wrasses only suitable with other aggressive, non-wrasse fish In general, yes, else in a very large tank (250+ gallons), or should all of them not be recommended under any circumstances?

And, if the latter's the case (which I do wonder about, with how many people I see raving about mystery wrasses) Until it eats their shrimp and kills other wrasses, then what would be a proper alternative for those with smaller/nano tanks that run under 40 gallons (which perhaps would be a question better suited for the nano forum)? Would the only option be the possum wrasses (genus wetmorella), since I've read that flasher wrasses aren't suited for nano tanks?
Exactly, yes. I would only consider Wetmorella wrasses for the typical biocube tanks.

Any advice you kind, knowledgeable individuals can provide would be greatly appreciated. I apologize if any of my discussion/question came off as a rant; however, I am interested in trying the genus someday without having to incite World War III in a tank.

 

[Umbriel]

A quick question for you, evolved, as you're the wrasse expert: what is your opinion on the pinkstreaked wrasse (Pseudochilinops ataenia), which looks similar to the Pseudocheilinus wrasses but seem to have the temperament of a Wetmorella wrasse?

 

[evolved]

Ah, that is a notable exception and something I forgot to mention. Thanks for bringing it up!

Yes, the pink streak is not at all like the rest of the genus. They're somewhat secretive and very passive. Mixing them with other peaceful/passive wrasses would be fine.