The Scott’s Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus scottorum), also known as Scott’s Wrasse, is a vibrant marine fish celebrated for its striking coloration and active behavior. Originating from the Pacific Ocean, particularly around Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and extending eastward to the Pitcairn Islands, this species is a favored choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 340 liters (90 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, primarily feeding on zooplankton.
• Be aware of: Known to jump, so a secure lid is essential; may exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species.
Appearance and Coloration
Scott’s Fairy Wrasse exhibits significant color variation based on its geographic location:
• Fiji Variant: Predominantly green with a striking black margin on the dorsal fin.
• Cook Islands Variant: Bluer in coloration with yellow fins and more defined color separations.
• Australian Variant: Contains more red within the fins with less dramatic color transitions.
Males and females are similarly colored, but males display intensified colors during courtship. It’s noteworthy that their colors may vary depending on mood and environmental factors.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Scott’s Fairy Wrasses inhabit coral reefs at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters. They are typically found in small groups, feeding on zooplankton a short distance above the reef substrate. Their active and peaceful nature makes them a lively addition to marine aquariums.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of Scott’s Fairy Wrasses in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 90-gallon (340 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample space.
• 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 to create hiding spots and foraging areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium will support their natural behaviors and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Scott’s Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous and adapt well to captive diets:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp
• Vitamin-enriched frozen brine shrimp
• Other meaty foods
• High-quality marine flake and pellet food
Feeding small amounts multiple times a day can help maintain their energy levels and vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Scott’s Fairy Wrasses are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly or in a male-female pair unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: May act aggressively towards other wrasses or similar-shaped fish, especially if inadequately fed or if the habitat lacks hiding places.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, and other non-aggressive wrasses. Caution is advised when housing with other wrasses or species with similar coloration.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate aggressive behaviors. Due to their territorial nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: Considered reef-safe, they should leave corals and other beneficial invertebrates alone.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
• Jumping Behavior: Known to be jumpers, so a covered aquarium is essential to prevent escape.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Scott’s Fairy Wrasses can be a vibrant and beneficial addition to a marine aquarium.