Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lubbocki)

 

• 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: 190 litres (50 gallons)

• Adult size: Up to 7.5 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 Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse is a visually striking species exhibiting notable sexual dimorphism:

• Males: Feature a bright yellow dorsal area, transitioning into red and purple hues along the body. The anal and caudal fins are typically red with blue edging, and males often exhibit enhanced colouration during courtship displays.

• Females and Juveniles: Generally display softer pink and yellow tones, with less defined markings compared to males.

 

Natural Habitat and Behaviour

Cirrhilabrus lubbocki is native to the Western Pacific Ocean, found particularly around the Philippines, Sulawesi (Indonesia), and northern Australia. They inhabit outer reef slopes and rubble zones, typically at depths ranging from 20 to 25 metres (66 to 82 feet).

• Social Structure: Typically 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: 190 litres (50 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 tight-fitting lid is essential, as Cirrhilabrus lubbocki are known jumpers, especially when startled.

 

Diet and Feeding

In their natural environment, Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasses primarily feed on zooplankton. In captivity, they readily adapt 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

• Dwarf angelfish

• Other peaceful wrasses

• 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.

• Courtship Displays: Males exhibit vibrant colouration and fin flaring displays during courtship, adding visual interest to the aquarium.