cleaner fish
Quick Summary
Cleaner fish are small fish known for their symbiotic relationship with larger fish. These small fish, often referred to as cleaner wrasse, feed on parasites and dead tissue found on the skin of larger fish. This mutualistic relationship benefits both species: the cleaner fish gain a food source and protection, while the larger fish remain healthy and free of parasites. Larger fish recognize cleaner fish and allow them access to their mouths and gills to perform their cleaning duties. This behavior is well-documented in tropical reef ecosystems.123
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