(Cirrhilabrus filamentosus) Care Guide & Description
The Whipfin Fairy Wrasse is a stunning reef-safe wrasse species, known for its graceful swimming and vibrant color shifts. While males are more flamboyant with elongated dorsal filaments, females are smaller, sleeker, and often display softer hues of pink, peach, and yellow with subtle iridescence. They’re peaceful, active, and a great addition to a community reef tank.
Care Requirements
Tank Size: 55 gallons (208L) minimum
Temperament: Peaceful, best kept with other non-aggressive fish
Reef Compatibility: Yes, completely reef-safe
Diet: Carnivorous – thrives on a mix of high-quality frozen and live foods (Mysis shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, enriched brine shrimp) alongside a quality marine pellet or flake food
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
dKH: 8–12
Behavior & Tank Mates
Active swimmers but shy when first introduced—provide plenty of live rock for hiding
Gets along well with peaceful tank mates, such as other fairy wrasses, flasher wrasses, anthias, and smaller reef fish
Can be housed with a male Whipfin Fairy Wrasse, but ensure ample space to prevent aggression
Special Considerations
Jumpers! A secure lid is essential, as they can leap when startled
Prefers low to moderate water flow to mimic natural reef currents
May go into a temporary hiding phase (up to a few days) when first introduced, but will settle with time
The female Whipfin Fairy Wrasse might not have the elaborate extensions of a male, but her soft coloration and graceful movement make her a beautiful and peaceful reef addition!
