Don't miss your chance to procure one of the newest and breathtaking additions to the aquarium hobby, the Hooded Fairy Wrasse. First described in 2003, Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus is currently one of the most highly sought after deep-water wrasse in its genus.
Also recognized as the Coral Sea Wrasse, the Hooded Fairy Wrasse has a distinctive pattern of colors ranging from rose, pink, orange and yellow with purple-black edging on its dorsal and tail fins. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Hooded Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 70 gallons or larger. It will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. A single male can be kept with a group of females that are introduced prior to or at the same time as the male. This wrasse likes to jump, so a tight-fitting canopy is recommended.
When first introduced into the aquarium, live brine shrimpor frozen mysis should be used to entice this fish to eat. Meals should consist of a variety of enriched frozen brine shrimp, frozen mysis and other marine meats.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 2-3/4"; Large: 2-3/4" to 3-1/2"
13-Hooded Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Fiji, Melanesia
Family: Labridae
14-Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
The Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse originates from the eastern Tomini Bay, Sulawesi, and occurs in small groups on the reef. The Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse has a brilliant orange colored back with a magenta colored stripe covering the head and extending the entire length of the fish to the tail. The male of this species develops a dark red crown marking on the head. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood. When courting, the male will display increased color intensity.
The Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 75 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2" to 4"
15-Scott's Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus scottorum
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Black, Blue, Green, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji, Vanuatu
Family: Labridae
The Scott's Fairy Wrasse, also known as the Black-fin or Blackedge Fairy Wrasse, originates from the waters of Australia, Cook Islands, and Fiji, and each location represents a color variation of Cirrhilabrus scottorum.
The Scott's Fairy Wrasse from Fiji is also known as Scott's Greenback Fairy Wrasse and is mostly green in color with a striking black margin on the dorsal fin. Scott's Fairy Wrasse originating from Cook Islands is bluer in coloration with yellow fins and contains more definitive breaks between the colors. The variety collected from Australia contains more red within the fins and the break in coloration within the body is less dramatic. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Scott's Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 125 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Scott's Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1 1/2" to 2"; Small/Medium 2" to 2 1/2"; Medium 2 1/2" to 3"; Mediume/Large 3" to 3 1/2"; Large 3 1/2" to 4"; X Large 4" to 5 1/4"
16-Flame Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus jordani
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Hawaii
Family: Labridae
The Flame Fairy Wrasse is also referred to as Jordan's Fairy Wrasse, or Jordan's Wrasse. The male has a bright golden body with red ornamentation on the fins. The females generally do not have quite as bold markings as the males.
A 90 gallon or larger aquarium, either fish-only or reef, with a shaded area is recommended. The Flame Wrasse will not bother corals or invertebrates, which makes them the ideal fish for a reef aquarium. These fish do like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is required.
The Flame Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2" Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 4"
17-Bluehead Fairy Wrasse Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Red, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Jakarta, Sumatra
Family: Labridae
The Bluehead Fairy Wrasse is also known as the Blue Scaled Fairy Wrasse, Yellow Flanked Fairy Wrasse, Purplehead Parrot Wrasse, or the Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse. This species varies in coloration considerably ranging from a red and blue coloration, to a deep maroon and deep blue coloration. More often than not this species will have a pale underside. The Bluehead wrasse and the Yellow Flanked Wrasse Cirrhilabrus lyukyuensis have been commonly mistaken for each other for some time in the science of ichthyology. Hiroyuki Tanaka, a leading authority on Cirrhilabrus spp, tends to believe that these two fish are synonymous with one another, and differ only in coloration based on their exact locale. Cirrhilabrus lyukyuensis normally has a distinctive yellow to orange patch just behind the pectoral fins. Please expect variations in coloration with these fish, as the intensity of coloration and patterns may also vary with the location of their natural habitat, their age, and their mood.
The Bluehead Fairy Wrasse is an ideal fish for the reef aquarium adding both bright coloration and activity to these aquariums. Wrasse of the genus Cirrhilabrus mix well together if they are introduced simultaneously to the tank, and are one of the best groups of fish for a reef tank setting.
The Bluehead Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1 1/4" to 2" Medium 2" to 3" Large 3" to 4"
18-Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus filamentosus
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Blue, Red, Tan, White, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
The Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse, originates from the waters of the Indian Ocean. Theis species is a very distinctive wrasse with its long dorsal fin that may exceed the length of the fish. The main body of this wrasse is a brilliant red color while the lower half of the body is white. The dorsal fin is brightly colored yellow and is outlined in blue. The male during courting will display its brilliantly colored fins in an attempt to persuade its mate. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Whip Fin Wrasse is a peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 50 gallons or larger. When maintained with otherCirrhilabrus or Paracheilinus wrasse, they can become territorial, and dominate similar species. Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse will not harm any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Medium 1 3/4" to 2 3/4" Large 2 3/4" to 3 1/2"
19-Yellow-Flanked Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus lyukyuensis
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Assorted
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
The Yellow-Flanked Fairy Wrasse is also known as Blueside Fairy Wrasse and is multicolored with a greenish-blue head and a large yellow triangular patch on its sides. Depending on where the fish is collected, the yellow triangular patch may actually be pinker in color. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Yellow-Flanked Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 90 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Yellow Flanded Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Medium 2" to 3" Large 3" to 4"
20-Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus rubrisquamis
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives
Family: Labridae
The Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse, also known as the Rosy-scales Fairy Wrasse, originates from the waters surrounding the Maldives islands. The Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse is a small colorful wrasse with the front part of the body being red in coloration with the remainder being yellow. As the fish matures, the scales toward the front of the fish develop dark edges. The color of the female is subdued when comparing it to the brilliance of the male. The male during courting will turn almost white on the sides in an attempt to persuade its mate. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 70 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Medium Male: 2" to 3", Large Male: 3" to 4"
21-Labout's Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus laboutei
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4½"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Vanuatu
Family: Labridae
The Labout's Fairy Wrasse originates from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia, and occurs in small groups on the outer reef. The Labout's Fairy Wrasse has a distinctive pattern of colors ranging from red, orange and yellow with a blue cap covering the nose and head. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Labout's Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 70 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. A single male can be kept with a group of females that is introduced prior to or at the same time as the male. These wrasse like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Labout's Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1 1/2 to 2", Medium 2" to 3", Large 3" to 4"
22-Lineatus Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus lineatus
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Coral Sea
Family: Labridae
The Lineatus Fairy Wrasse originates from the waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. They are very colorful, peaceful fish, that are not seen too often in the aquarium hobby. The dominant male of this species is more brilliantly colored when compared to the female/sub-dominant male. The female/sub-dominant male of this species has multiple blue horizontal lines covering the head and body, which break into spots as they progress towards the tail. The female/sub-dominant male will change into a dominant male if incorporated into the aquarium as the only fish of this species. These wrasse are one of the most beautiful fish in their family, and are highly sought after among many enthusiasts.
The Lineatus Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 90 gallons or larger. They will not harm corals or invertebrates making them the ideal candidate for the reef aquarium. These wrasse like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Lineatus Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"; Medium: 2-1/2" to 3-1/2"; Large: 3-1/2" to 4"; XLarge: 4" to 5"
23-Ruby Head Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus cf cyanopleura
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Coral Sea
Family: Labridae
The Ruby Head Fairy Wrasse is a peaceful fish that will make a beautiful addition to your aquarium. The Ruby Head Fairy Wrasse has a blue body with red/orange running along the dorsal edge and a shining red face. Colors may vary to other blues and purples depending on the fish's mood. When courting, the male will display an increased color intensity.
The Ruby Head Fairy Wrasse will thrive in either a fish-only or reef aquarium of 90 gallons or larger. It needs a shaded area away from the bright lights. They will not bother corals or invertebrates, making them an ideal fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasse like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Ruby Head Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
24-Longfin Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus rubriventralis
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Sri Lanka
Family: Labridae
The Longfin Fairy Wrasse is also known as the Blue and Red Fairy Wrasse or Social Wrasse. This species varies in coloration considerably but is usually bright red/orange coloration with a pale body and scarlet ventral and anal fins. More often than not this species will have a pale underside. Please expect variations in coloration with these fish, as the intensity of coloration and patterns vary with the location in their natural habitat, and their mood.
The Longfin Fairy Wrasse is an ideal fish for the reef aquarium adding both bright coloration and activity to these aquariums. Wrasse of the genus Cirrhilabrus mix well together if they are introduced simultaneously to the tank, and are one of the best groups of fish for a reef tank setting.
The Longfin Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"
24-Fine Spotted Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus punctatus
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Green, Red, White, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Fiji, Solomon Islands
Family: Labridae
The Fine Spotted Fairy Wrasse is mostly green in color with a white underside. Their body is adorned with many small white spots that do intensify depending on the mood of the fish. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male changes to various colors.
The Fine Spotted Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 90 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Fine Spotted Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1-1/2" to 2", Medium 2" to 3", Large 3" to 4"
25-Yellow Fin Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus flavidorsalis
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Red, White, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
The Yellow-Fin Fairy Wrasse is mostly red and white in coloration with a yellow dorsal fin. The females of this species, like other wrasses in the Cirrhilabrus genus, are mostly pink with a white underside. When courting, the male will display an increased color intensity. These wrasses are always in movement, providing an endless amount of activity for either a saltwater fish only or reef aquarium.
A 50 gallon or larger aquarium, either fish-only or reef, with a shaded area is recommended. The Yellow-Fin Fairy Wrasse will not bother fish or invertebrates, making them a perfect addition to any reef aquarium. These fish do like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is required.
The Yellow Fin Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-3/4" to 3"
Female
Male
26-Pink Margin Fairy Wrasse
Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Pink
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Labridae
The Pink Margin Fairy Wrasse originates from the waters ranging from southern Japan to Indonesia, and occurs in small groups on the reef. The Pink Margin Fairy Wrasse is a very colorful fish displaying a multitude of colors including the red margin on both the tail and dorsal fin. The male of this species is more brilliantly colored when compared to both the female and the juvenile, and when courting, will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Pink Margin Fairy Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 90 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. These wrasse like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Pink Margin Fairy Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Juvenile/Female: 1-1/2" to 2", Small 2" to 3", Medium 3" to 4", Large 4" to 5"
Approximate Purchase Size: Juvenile/Female: 1-1/2" to 2", Small 2" to 3", Medium 3" to 4", Large 4" to 5"
27-Yellow Banded Possum Wrasse
Wetmorella nigropinnata
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Family: Labridae
The Banded Possum Wrasse is also known as the Pygmy Possum Wrasse or Arrowhead Wrasse, and it originates from the waters of Indonesia. The Banded Possum Wrasse has an arrowhead like shape and is mostly red/orange in color with yellow vertical stripes when in its juvenile coloration. As the fish matures the fish will darken to a deep rustish coloration. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The Banded Possum Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 10 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. A single male can be kept with a group of females that is introduced prior to or at the same time as the male. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight fitting canopy is recommended.
The Banded Possum Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4" to 2"
28-Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse
Wetmorella tanakai
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 2½"
Color Form: Black, Red, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
Available for the first time outside Diver's Den®, Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse, or the Tanaka Possum Wrasse, delivers entrancing coloration made even more mystifying by its secretive nature. This cautious rock dweller boasts a stunning sunset reddish-orange body accented with four thin white bands, plus two false eyespots above and below the tail. Identified in 2007, the Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse is the namesake of acclaimed researcher Hiroyuki Tanaka, MD.
n the wild, Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse' diet is small benthic invertebrates. In the home aquarium, their diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Provide plenty of caves and hiding spots as Tanaka's Pygmy Wrasse is a very secretive species. House with other peaceful fish to help encourage this shy beauty out of the rockwork. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. A single male can be kept with a group of females that is introduced prior to or at the same time as the male. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight-fitting canopy is recommended.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/4" to 2-1/2"
29-White Banded Possum Wrasse
Wetmorella albofasciata
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 2½"
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
The White Banded Possum Wrasse, also known as the Whitebanded Sharpnose Wrasse, is a popular and easy-to-keep Pygmy Wrasse from Indonesia known to thrive in a wide range of aquarium setups. The White Banded Possum Wrasse has an arrowhead like shape and is mostly red/black in color with white vertical stripes. The male and female of this species are very similarly colored, but when courting, the male will display increased color intensity. Colors may vary depending on the fish's mood.
The White Banded Possum Wrasse is a very peaceful, active fish that will bring both color and activity to a fish-only or reef aquarium of 10 gallons or larger. They will not bother any corals or invertebrates making them a perfect fish for the reef aquarium. A single male can be kept with a group of females that is introduced prior to or at the same time as the male. These wrasses like to jump, so a tight-fitting canopy is recommended.
According to guest Wrasse expert Scott W. Michael, "These microcarnivores will feed on tiny worms and crustaceans that associate with live rock. They also readily take aquarium foods, like mysis shrimp, frozen preparations and flake food. My Wetmorella seemed to prefer CYCLOP-EEZE®, which they pick out of the water column. Even though they will eat introduced fodder, I think it is still best to house them in a tank with live substratebecause they are so reclusive (especially when first added to a tank) and prone to being dominated by tankmates. This will enable the possum wrasses to feed throughout the day on the minute prey living on the rock. A productive refugium can also be helpful to ensure that they get enough to eat."
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/4" to 2-1/2"
30-Blue Star Leopard Wrasse
Macropharyngodon bipartitus
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Green, Orange, Tan, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Africa, Maldives
Family: Labridae
The Blue Star Leopard Wrasse, also known as the Vermiculite Wrasse, or Divided Wrasse, has a distinct color pattern. The females or juveniles have a pearly white body with a combination of mottled oranges, yellows, and browns, with light blue spots found throughout the pattern, along with a large blue to black spot on their stomach. The males are brilliant neon green and blue with black outlines in a broken striped pattern down the length of their bodies.
Like other members of the genus Macropharyngodon these fishes require a fine sandy substrate as they bury themselves at night for protection. They require a very well established aquarium as they naturally hunt for small crustaceans throughout the day.
The Blue Star Leopard Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Leopard Wrasse are challenging fish to adapt to a captive environment, but in the hands of the expert reef aquarist who can provide these fishes with the proper care and environment, they can thrive and make for an incredible display. It is ideal to introduced Leopard Wrasse to the display aquarium well before any larger or more active fishes are introduced, so that they have ample time to settle in and adapt to their new environment, and start feeding on prepared foods well. If trying to maintain a small group of these fishes, introducing them simultaneously into the display is ideal. Like other Labroids these fishes have the ability to change sex, as the most dominant fish in the group can turn into a fully functioning male.
This unique wrasse is found around the East African coast in the Western Indian Ocean. The healthiest fishes hail from the Maldives, as this is the only region we offer the Blue Star Leopard Wrasse from.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1-1/4" to 2", Medium 2" to 2-3/4", Large 3" to 4"
31-Leopard Wrasse
Macropharyngodon meleagris
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Black, Blue, Green, Orange, Red, Tan, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Cook Islands, Coral Sea, Fiji, Sri Lanka, Tahiti, Tonga
Family: Labridae
Female
Male
The Leopard Wrasse is also known as the Guinea Fowl Wrasse, or Blackspotted Wrasse. This species has two different appearances depending on gender. Females are white with multiple black or brown irregular spots with white to blue margins covering the entire body. The female's fins may have accents of yellow or tan. The males have an orangish-red background color with green mottling covering the body.
A 50 gallon or larger aquarium with well established live rock and a layer of live sand is recommended. They will do best when introduced in groups of three or more. It eats small invertebrates (foraminiferans and amphiopods) that grow on live rock.
The Leopard Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 1-3/4"; Medium: 1-3/4" to 2-1/4"; Large: 2-1/4" to 3-1/2"
32-Pearly Wrasse
Halichoeres margaritaceus
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Green, Pink, Tan
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji
Family: Labridae
Female
Male
The Pearly Wrasse features an attractive sage green body coloration beautifully decorated with irregular scribbles of pink. This coloration allows the Pearly Wrasse to blend into weedy or algae-covered reef surfaces where it is commonly found especially in areas of strong surge. The Pearly Wrasse is one of the several species where the juvenile and female stages are nearly identical.
The Pearly Wrasse is a burrowing wrasse well adapted to feeding on benthic invertebrates. As such, the ideal aquascape should include an open area where the Pearly Wrasse has easy access to fine, sandy substrate. A depth of at least 2-3 inches provides the Pearly Wrasse the appropriate refuge if frightened. A tight-fitting lid is also recommended. An established aquarium 50-gallons or larger stocked with other passive tank mates makes an ideal environment for the Pearly Wrasse.
The Pearly Wrasse will eat fireworms and pyramidellid snails, protecting corals and clams. In addition, it may eat feather dusters, small shrimp, tubeworms, and flatworms. It may also eat parasites off of tank mates when young. The Pearly Wrasse diet should include vitamin-enrichedfrozen mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high-quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3-1/4"; Large: 3-1/4" to 4-1/2"
32-Pink-Streaked Wrasse
Pseudocheilinops ataenia
Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 2½"
Color Form: Blue, Pink, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Labridae
Considered to be one of the best reef wrasses for aquarists, the Pink-Streaked Wrasse is a small, colorful fish that is a welcome addition to any reef aquarium (even the nano-reef). They are also sexually dichromatic, with the males sporting more pronounced yellow lines down the body and bluish-gray markings on the gill cover.
While it is very shy initially, it gradually becomes quite bold and will spend a considerable amount of time in the open. It is a good feeder, taking frozen foods and flake foods. It is ignored by most of its tankmates, although relatedPseudocheilinus wrasses may chase it, as the Pink-Streaked Wrasse is much more passive. If the tank is large enough and there are plenty of hiding places, the P. ataenia will simply dive between the branches of soft or hard corals.
According to guest expert Scott Michael: "I have never seen it behave aggressively toward any other fishes, including two smaller Possum Wrasses (Wetmorella spp.) I introduced it to a tank where the P. ataenia was well established. The Possum Wrasses are very similar in shape to the Pink-Streaked and one would think they could elicit aggression. On a couple of occasions, one Pink-Streaked Wrasse I kept would inspect a larger fairy wrasse as if it was going to clean it. However, I have yet to see actual cleaning."
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 3/4" to 1-1/2"; Medium: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"
33-Scarlet Pin Stripe Wrasse
Pseudocheilinus evanidus
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Hawaii, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Labridae
The Scarlet Pin Stripe Wrasse is also referred to as the Secretive Wrasse or Striated Wrasse. This gorgeous fish is a deep red to maroon color with multiple faint horizontal stripes running the length of the body to the gill covering. A pale blue stripe or marking is present under each eye.
It requires a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with a generous supply of hiding places and live rock in which to forage for food. It will sometimes act aggressively towards peaceful Wrasses, so ideally it is best to introduce this species last to the aquarium. It will search for live foods in the form of small crustaceans such as pyramidellid snails (clam parasites), commensal flatworms, and bristleworms, making this fish an ideal candidate for the reef aquarium.
The Scarlet Pin Stripe Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1" to 2-1/2"
34-Black Leopard Wrasse
Macropharyngodon negrosensis
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Black, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji
Family: Labridae
The Black Leopard Wrasse, also known as Leopard Wrasse or Yellowspotted Wrasse, has a dark body with light blue to yellowish spots. The dorsal fin has black and white diagonal stripes, and it may have red highlights on the tail and head.
A 50 gallon or larger aquarium with well established live rock and a layer of live sand is recommended. They will do best when introduced in groups of three or more. It eats small invertebrates (foraminiferans and amphiopods) that grow on live rock.
The Black Leopard Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1-1/2" to 2",Medium 2" to 3, Large 3" to 4"
35-Potter's Wrasse
Macropharyngodon geoffroyi
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Expert Only
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4½"
Color Form: Blue, Orange
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Hawaii
Family: Labridae
The Potter's Wrasse is also known as Potter's Leopard Wrasse, Geoffroy's Wrasse, or Shortnose Wrasse. It has an orange-peach body with numerous bright blue markings.
A 50 gallon or larger aquarium with peaceful tank mates and well established live rock and sand is ideal, as these fishes prey upon small invertebrates (copepods and amphipods).
The Potters Leopard Wrasse must be housed in an aquarium that has at least a two inch layer of fine sand as these fishes bury themselves in the substrate at night for protection.
A diet consisting of enriched frozen mysis and brine shrimp, black worms, and other frozen preparations for carnivores, offered in small quantities three to four times per day is ideal.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 1-3/4"; Medium: 1-3/4" to 2-1/4"; Large: 2-1/4" to 3-1/2"
