Orange-back Fairy Wrasse

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Endemic to central-eastern Indonesia, particularly the Gulf of Tomini and the Togean Islands, Sulawesi. Inhabits shallow seaward coral reefs and steep reef slopes, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the family Labridae, genus *Cirrhilabrus*. Commonly known as the orange-back fairy wrasse. Males reach a maximum length of about 10 cm, while females are slightly smaller. Features a streamlined body and well-developed, soft fins.

Social Behavior: Active, social species that lives in harems consisting of one dominant male and several females. Males exhibit spectacular flashing displays, expanding their fins and intensifying colors to attract females or deter rivals. Peaceful toward most other reef species in captivity.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Adult males display brilliant coloration: an electric blue-violet body with a striking, vivid orange-yellow patch covering the entire back. Females are mostly pinkish-red with subtler markings. Like many wrasses, they are protogynous hermaphrodites.

Aquarium Setup: Requires an aquarium of at least 200 liters (50 gallons) with plenty of open swimming space and rockwork offering natural shelters. A tight-fitting lid or screen cover is mandatory, as this species is an exceptional jumper when startled.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous planktivore. In captivity, it readily accepts frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped krill, and high-quality dry pellets or flakes. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily to sustain its high metabolism.

Water Quality: Standard and stable marine parameters: temperature 23-26°C (73-79°F), pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025 SG. Good water movement and regular changes are essential to keep nutrient levels low.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Excellent community fish and 100% reef-safe. Compatible with other wrasses, tangs, damselfishes, and clownfishes. If keeping multiple specimens, introduce females first or simultaneously, with only one male.

Aquarium Breeding: Breeding in home aquariums is highly challenging and undocumented. They release pelagic eggs into the water column, making larval collection and rearing extremely complex.

Risks and Diseases: The primary risk is jumping out of uncovered tanks. They can contract common marine parasites (marine ich and velvet) during initial acclimation. A preventive quarantine is recommended.