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Elegant and vibrant, the Whipfin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus filamentosus) is a dazzling reef fish that brings constant movement and colour to marine aquariums. Males are especially striking, showing off glowing red and orange bodies with electric blue highlights and the namesake trailing "whip-like" dorsal fin filament. Females and juveniles are more subdued but equally graceful, making them perfect additions to peaceful reef tanks.
These wrasses are active, non-aggressive, and reef-safe, making them an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add colour and energy without the risk of coral damage.
Species: Cirrhilabrus filamentosus
Common Names: Whipfin Fairy Wrasse, Filamented Fairy Wrasse
Origin: Indo-Pacific – particularly around Indonesia and nearby island reefs
Light Requirements: Moderate to high – thrives under reef lighting that enhances natural colours
Diet: Carnivorous – feeds on zooplankton, copepods, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty frozen or prepared foods
Maximum Size: 9–11 cm
Temperament: Peaceful, active swimmer
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Aquarium Setup:
Best kept in marine aquariums of 200 litres or larger with plenty of swimming space and live rock for foraging and hiding. Wrasses are natural jumpers, so a tight-fitting mesh lid is a must. They do well in reef systems, posing no threat to corals, but may eat very small ornamental shrimp. Males display their most vivid colours when kept with females in a small harem.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–27°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.020–1.025
Hardness: 8–12 dKH
Growth and Maintenance:
Whipfin Fairy Wrasses are hardy and adapt well to captivity when provided with good water quality and a balanced diet. They are very active swimmers, so ensure strong circulation without overly aggressive flow. Supplement their diet with a variety of meaty foods to maintain colour vibrancy.
Care Tips:
✔ Always use a tight-fitting mesh lid to prevent jumping
✔ Feed a varied carnivorous diet 2–3 times daily
✔ Consider keeping a male with multiple females to encourage natural behaviour and displays
✔ Avoid housing with highly aggressive fish that may intimidate them
✔ Provide caves or overhangs for resting at night
Compatibility:
Reef-safe and excellent for peaceful community tanks. Pairs well with tangs, clownfish, gobies, anthias, and other fairy or flasher wrasses. Avoid triggers, large groupers, or overly territorial species.
Availability:
Regularly available in the Australian marine aquarium trade, often sold as juveniles or young males. Colour intensity varies with maturity and social dynamics.