Scott's Fairy Wrasse

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Tropical Indo-Pacific. Inhabits outer reef slopes rich in corals, deep lagoon passes between 10 and 40 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Labridae. Reaches about 13 cm. Robust and slightly bulkier body compared to average Cirrhilabrus, with a rounded caudal fin.

Social Behavior: Tireless swimmer in mid-water. Displays a bolder temperament and is known to establish a strict hierarchy in the tank.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Highly variable coloration depending on origin. Body is dark greenish-purple with a large red or scarlet patch in the middle of the flanks. Dorsal fin is black and red.

Aquarium Setup: Needs a tank of at least 200 liters (55 gallons) with plenty of rocky hiding spots but also ample open space for active swimming.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Provide a varied diet with mysis, brine shrimp, finely chopped krill, and pellets for carnivorous marine fish.

Water Quality: Temperature 22-26°C (72-78°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Well-skimmed and mechanically filtered water to reduce waste.

Compatibility and Tankmates: 100% reef-safe. Does not cause any damage to corals. Can show marked territoriality against other wrasses introduced later.

Aquarium Reproduction: Reproduction is not successfully recorded in the hobby due to the complex pelagic larval phase.

Risks and Diseases: Jumps with extreme ease if startled or chased by tankmates. Cover the aquarium with a protective fine mesh screen.