5 Things I Learned about the Harlequin Sweetlips (Plectorhinchus chaetodonoides)

February 12, 2018

Species Highlights

Adult harlequin sweetlips inhabit edges and caves can be found in lagoons and reefs of the Indian and Western Pacific Oceans. Although they live largely in solitude, sweetlips can benefit from symbiotic relationship with cleaner wrasse, a small, coral reef-dweller that dines on the parasites, food particles and dead tissue of other fish.

Here are 5 other interesting little tidbits about this fish with a romantic-sounding name:

See the harlequin sweetlips “sweet lips” for yourself at Greater Cleveland Aquarium.

– Sam Fryberger

JUVENILE PHOTO by Nhobgood/Wikimedia

MUSIC by Podington Bear, “Tropical Sunrise”

High five a SCUBA diver and watch them clean exhibits Monday - Friday.

Check Out Daily Activities

March 24, 2025 / Education, Species Highlights

Frogs v. Toads . . . What’s The Difference?

Have you ever found yourself wondering what exactly is the difference between a frog and a toad? While these two… Read More

February 26, 2025 / 5 Things I Learned

5 Things I Learned About Spiny Pacific Lumpsuckers

This tiny, orb-like fish, which only grows 1-3 inches in size, is the aptly named Pacific spiny lumpsucker. Here are… Read More

/ 5 Things I Learned

5 Things I Learned About Ripsaw Catfish

Primarily found in waterways throughout the Amazon, you’re looking at the ripsaw catfish. Here are 5 things a non-aquarist learned… Read More