The Blue Striped Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus temminckii) is a vibrant and active marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from Japan to the Philippines and northern Australia. This species is highly sought after in the aquarium trade for its striking appearance, peaceful temperament, and energetic swimming behaviour.
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 208 litres (55 gallons)
• Adult size Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
• Diet Carnivorous, primarily feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates
• Be aware of Prone to jumping (requires a secure lid); males exhibit enhanced coloration during courtship displays; best maintained singly or in harems with one male and multiple females
Appearance and Colouration
The Blue Striped Fairy Wrasse exhibits sexual dimorphism:
• Males
Feature a reddish upper body with a pink to white belly. A distinctive blue stripe runs from the snout along the upper body to the tail, which may be bright or lighter than the surrounding area. Males also possess elongated pelvic fins.
• Females and Juveniles
Display more subdued coloration with less pronounced finnage.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
This species inhabits coral reefs and rubble zones at depths ranging from 3 to 35 meters. They are often found in small groups, with a dominant male overseeing several females and juveniles. Active during the day, they spend most of their time swimming in mid-water, foraging for planktonic prey.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
• Minimum Tank Size 208 litres (55 gallons)
• Water Parameters
• Temperature 24°C – 26°C (75°F – 79°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, simulating natural reef conditions.
• Water Movement Moderate to strong, reflecting their native habitat.
Important Note: A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as Blue Striped Fairy Wrasses are known jumpers, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
In their natural environment, these wrasses primarily feed on zooplankton and small invertebrates. 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 coloration 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, coloration may vary among individuals.
Summary
The Blue Striped Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus temminckii) is a vibrant and active addition to marine aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking coloration, and dynamic swimming behaviour make them a favourite among reef keepers. Providing appropriate tank conditions, a suitable diet, and a compatible social environment ensures that this beautiful species will thrive in captivity.