Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus naokoae)
Description:
The Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse is a stunning and relatively rare reef-safe wrasse, prized for its vibrant coloration and active swimming. Males display striking shades of red, pink, and orange with a dark dorsal band and iridescent highlights, while females and juveniles are more subdued but still attractive. Peaceful and full of personality, this wrasse makes an excellent addition to a reef tank.
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful (may show mild aggression toward other wrasses)
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
Maximum Size: ~9 cm (3.5 in)
Tank Requirements:
-
Minimum Tank Size: 250 L (65 gal)
-
Water Temperature: 23 – 26 °C
-
pH: 8.1 – 8.4
-
Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 sg
-
Setup: Provide plenty of live rock for hiding, with open swimming space. A covered tank is essential as fairy wrasses are known jumpers.
Diet:
Carnivorous – offer a variety of small meaty foods:
-
Frozen mysis and enriched brine shrimp
-
Finely chopped seafood
-
High-quality marine carnivore pellets or flakes
-
Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily
Compatibility:
-
Peaceful and well-suited for reef aquariums.
-
Safe with corals and most invertebrates.
-
Best kept singly or in male-female pairs; avoid housing with other fairy wrasses unless in a large tank.
-
Avoid aggressive tankmates that may bully this active but gentle fish.
⚠️ Reef Safe: Yes – completely safe with corals and most inverts.
✅ Quick Facts (Store Snapshot):
