The Reef Gallery
Exquisite Fairy Wrasse
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The Exquisite Fairy Wrasse, scientifically known as Cirrhilabrus exquisitus, is a stunning and colorful fish species that belongs to the family Labridae. These wrasses are highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant colors and graceful appearance. Here is a description of the Exquisite Fairy Wrasse:
Size: Exquisite Fairy Wrasses are relatively small, with an average size of about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters). Males are typically slightly larger than females.
Coloration: These wrasses are known for their striking and varied colors. The males are particularly vibrant, displaying a combination of shades such as deep purples, reds, oranges, and yellows. They often have a blue or green head and a distinctive bright yellow or orange tail fin. The color patterns can vary slightly among individuals.
Sexual Dimorphism: One of the most remarkable features of Exquisite Fairy Wrasses is their sexual dimorphism. Males and females exhibit very different coloration. While males are adorned with the aforementioned vivid colors, females are generally less colorful and often have a more subdued appearance with shades of pink and yellow.
Fins: Both males and females have elongated dorsal fins that add to their graceful appearance. These fins may have some degree of coloration, often matching the colors on the rest of their bodies.
Behavior: Exquisite Fairy Wrasses are known for their peaceful temperament. They are relatively social and can be kept in small groups or pairs within a well-maintained aquarium. However, they may become territorial, especially among males, so providing adequate hiding places and space is essential to minimize aggression.
Habitat: These wrasses are found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in the western Pacific Ocean, including areas like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. They are typically associated with coral reefs and lagoons.
Diet: Exquisite Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous and primarily feed on small invertebrates, zooplankton, and small crustaceans. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality frozen and live foods to replicate their natural diet.
Aquarium Care: If you plan to keep Exquisite Fairy Wrasses in an aquarium, it's essential to provide a well-maintained reef tank with plenty of live rock, hiding places, and open swimming space. They thrive in stable water conditions, so regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are crucial.
Reproduction: These wrasses are known to be protogynous hermaphrodites, which means that some females have the potential to change into males if the dominant male in the group disappears. Breeding in captivity can be challenging due to their complex social dynamics.
Due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between individual specimen
