Blacktail Filamented Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus melanurus)
Description:
The Blacktail Filamented Wrasse is a striking and active fairy wrasse, recognized by its elongated filamented fins and dark black tail band that contrasts against its colorful body. Males display more intense coloration, often with red, yellow, and green hues accented by flowing fin filaments, while females are more subdued. It is a peaceful, reef-safe wrasse ideal for larger community reef aquariums.
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful (but males may spar with other wrasses)
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years in captivity
Maximum Size: ~12 cm (5 in)
Tank Requirements:
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Minimum Tank Size: 300 L (75 gal)
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Water Temperature: 23 – 26 °C
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pH: 8.1 – 8.4
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Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 sg
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Setup: Provide plenty of live rock for hiding and sleeping, as well as open swimming space. A tightly covered tank is essential – wrasses are expert jumpers.
Diet:
Carnivorous – requires a varied diet of meaty foods:
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Frozen mysis and brine shrimp
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Finely chopped seafood (squid, shrimp, clam)
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High-quality marine carnivore pellets and flakes
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Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily
Compatibility:
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Generally peaceful, great for community and reef tanks.
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Completely safe with corals.
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May eat very tiny invertebrates (like feather dusters), but usually ignores shrimp and crabs.
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Best kept singly, or as a male-female pair. Avoid mixing with similar wrasses unless in a very large tank.
⚠️ Reef Safe: ✔ Yes – safe with corals and most inverts (caution with very small ornamental shrimp).
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