Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Aggressive

Cirrhilabrus scottorum exhibits an active, bold, and sometimes dominant temperament. They may be shy initially but quickly become prominent open-water swimmers in the mid-levels of the tank. Compared to smaller fairy wrasses, they can be somewhat aggressive toward similar-looking wrasses and should be introduced last to minimize territorial disputes.

Diet

Carnivore

Cirrhilabrus scottorum is a carnivorous planktivore that requires a rich and varied diet. In captivity, they should be fed high-quality frozen foods, including mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and lobster eggs. They will also readily accept commercial pellets and flake foods once acclimated. Supplementing their diet with fatty acids and vitamins helps maintain their dark, iridescent coloration.

Sex ratio

Harem

Keep singly or as a single male with a group of females in large systems.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Due to their larger size compared to other fairy wrasses and their high metabolism, Cirrhilabrus scottorum should be fed two to three times daily. Feeding small portions frequently reduces waste and prevents excess organic load in the aquarium. Consistent feeding also helps mitigate territorial aggression toward other reef inhabitants. Automated feeding systems can be very helpful.

Bioload

Scott's Fairy Wrasse is one of the larger and bulkier members of the genus, significantly increasing its daily caloric needs. They require heavy, frequent feedings of high-quality proteins, which translates into a higher bioload than smaller wrasses. Maintaining excellent water quality through rigorous skimming and biological filtration is critical when housing this hearty eater.

Flow

Strong

This wrasse prefers moderate to strong water flow, which mimics the currents of their native Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea habitats. Active water flow keeps food suspended, encouraging natural foraging behaviors in the water column. However, the aquascape must include shaded caves and overhangs where the fish can rest and sleep safely at night.

Jump risk

Yes

Due to their larger size and powerful musculature, Scott's Fairy Wrasses can jump with incredible force, easily knocking off loose glass tops. They will jump aggressively if spooked by large tankmates or unexpected external movements. A very sturdy, tightly secured mesh top is mandatory to prevent this prized fish from escaping the aquarium.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Like other members of its genus, Cirrhilabrus scottorum is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with the dominant female transitioning into a male when necessary. They are pelagic spawners that perform dynamic vertical rushes to release eggs and sperm into the open water. Breeding in home aquariums is undocumented due to the extreme difficulty of raising their microscopic pelagic larvae, which require specialized live feeds.

Compatibility & tankmates

Peaceful

This species is 100% reef-safe and compatible with all corals, clams, and ornamental invertebrates. It coexists well with other peaceful but robust community fish. However, due to its larger size, Cirrhilabrus scottorum can be more assertive and territorial than other fairy wrasses. A tightly fitting cover or mesh lid is strictly mandatory to prevent the fish from jumping out.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

Swims actively throughout the middle levels of the water column.