Hi Fin Sword Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus filamentosus)

 

• 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 8 cm (3 inches)

• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on zooplankton and small meaty foods

• Be aware of: Prone to jumping (requires a tight-fitting lid); males display increased colouration during courtship; best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females

 

Appearance and Colouration

The Hi Fin Sword Fairy Wrasse is a visually striking species exhibiting notable sexual dimorphism:

• Males: Display a brilliant red body with a white lower half. The dorsal fin is brightly coloured yellow and is outlined in blue, with a distinctive elongated filament extending from the fin, resembling a sword.

• Females and Juveniles: Generally exhibit a more subdued colouration, with a reddish-brown body and white ventral side. Their fins are transparent and lack the elongated filaments seen in males.

During courtship, males intensify their colours, showcasing vibrant displays to attract females.

 

Natural Habitat and Behaviour

Cirrhilabrus filamentosus is native to the Indo-Pacific region, predominantly found around Java and Indonesia. They inhabit coral-rich areas and rubble zones at depths ranging from 5 to 35 metres (16 to 115 feet).

• Social Structure: Typically found in small groups, with a dominant male overseeing several females and juveniles.

• Activity: Diurnal and active swimmers, often seen mid-water foraging for planktonic prey.

• Behaviour: Peaceful and non-aggressive, making them suitable for community aquariums.

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

• Minimum Tank Size: 208 litres (55 gallons)

• Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 27°C (75°F – 81°F)

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025

• Aquascaping:

• Incorporate ample live rock formations to create hiding spots and replicate natural reef structures.

• Ensure open swimming spaces to accommodate their active nature.

• Lighting: Moderate to high, simulating natural reef conditions.

• Water Movement: Moderate to strong, reflecting their natural habitat.

Important Note: A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential, as Cirrhilabrus filamentosus are known to jump, especially when startled.

 

Diet and Feeding

In their natural environment, Hi Fin Sword 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.

• Behavioural Displays: Males exhibit vibrant displays during courtship, enhancing the visual appeal of the aquarium.