Red-eye Fairy Wrasse

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to Indonesian waters, specifically around the Solor Strait, Flores Sea, and Bali. Inhabits outer reef slopes with rich coral growth and moderate current, at depths of 5 to 35 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the family Labridae, genus Cirrhilabrus. Grows to a maximum length of about 12 cm (4.7 inches). Features a slender body and large, prominent red eyes.

Social Behavior: Peaceful. Males can exhibit territorial behavior towards other fairy wrasses. Spends nights sleeping in a mucous cocoon hidden within the rockwork.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Adult males have a bright yellow or orange head, vibrant red eyes, and a body fading into metallic aqua-green, blue, or purple. Females are smaller and much duller, mostly reddish with a small spot on the tail base.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 200 liters with plenty of live rock for cover and ample open water for active swimming. A secure lid is absolutely necessary to prevent jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Planktivorous. Requires a varied diet of mysis, frozen brine shrimp, copepods, and small high-quality pellets fed 2-3 times daily.

Water Quality: Demands stable reef parameters: temperature 24-26°C (75-79°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.022-1.025, GH 15-25, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent reef-safe choice. Completely safe with corals and small ornamental invertebrates. May be shy initially; avoid stocking with aggressive species.

Aquarium Reproduction: Extremely difficult. Pelagic spawner. Spawning is preceded by intense male courtship displays, where the male flares its fins and rapidly changes colors.

Risks and Diseases: High jumping risk, especially when startled by sudden lighting changes. Susceptible to stress-induced skin infections if adequate shelter is not provided.