The Red Margin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking colouration, and dynamic swimming behaviour make them a favourite among reef enthusiasts. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet, and a compatible social environment ensures that this beautiful species will thrive in captivity.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes (peaceful and non-aggressive)
• Small invertebrate safe: ✅ Yes (reef-safe; does not harm invertebrates)
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes (does not harm corals)
• Minimum tank size: 340 litres (90 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 12 cm (5 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small meaty foods
• Be aware of: Prone to jumping (requires a tight-fitting lid); males exhibit vibrant colouration during courtship displays; best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females
Appearance and Colouration
The Red Margin Fairy Wrasse exhibits notable sexual dimorphism:
• Males: Display vibrant colouration, with a pink body and red margins on both the dorsal and caudal fins. The face becomes patterned with contrasting yellow lines and dashes, and the scales along the sides develop red dots.
• Females and Juveniles: Generally exhibit more subdued colouration, often with a pink body and yellow throughout the dorsal fin and upper portions of the head.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus is native to the Western Pacific Ocean, with a range extending from Japan through the Philippines, Palau, Indonesia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and Tonga. They inhabit coral reefs, typically at depths ranging from 30 to 40 meters (98 to 131 feet).
• Social Structure: Often found in small groups, with a dominant male overseeing several females and juveniles.
• Activity: Diurnal and active swimmers, spending most of their time mid-water, foraging for planktonic prey.
• Behaviour: Peaceful and non-aggressive, making them an excellent addition to community aquariums.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
• Minimum Tank Size: 340 litres (90 gallons)
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping:
• Provide ample live rock formations to create hiding spots and replicate their natural reef environment.
• Ensure open swimming spaces to accommodate their active nature.
• Lighting: Moderate to high, mimicking natural reef conditions.
• Water Movement: Moderate to strong, reflecting their natural habitat.
Important Note: A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus are known jumpers, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
In their natural environment, Red Margin Fairy Wrasses primarily feed on zooplankton. In captivity, they adapt well to a variety of meaty foods.
• Captive Diet:
• Offer vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.
• Provide high-quality marine flake and pellet foods.
• Supplement with live foods such as copepods and amphipods to encourage natural foraging behaviours.
Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily to maintain health and vibrant colouration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
• Temperament:
• Generally peaceful and suitable for community aquariums.
• Males may display increased colouration and fin displays during courtship.
• Tank Mates:
• Compatible with other non-aggressive species such as gobies, blennies, and dwarf angelfish.
• Avoid housing with aggressive or significantly larger species that may intimidate or outcompete them.
• Social Structure:
• Best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females.
• Introducing multiple males in the same tank can lead to aggression unless the aquarium is sufficiently large.
Important Considerations
• Jumping Behaviour: Ensure the aquarium has a secure lid, as these wrasses are prone to leaping out of tanks.
• Acclimation: Introduce them to well-established aquariums with stable water parameters to reduce stress.
• Colour Variability: Depending on their geographic origin, colouration may vary significantly among individuals.
Summary
The Red Margin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking colouration, and dynamic swimming behaviour make them a favourite among reef keepers. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet,