Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

Cirrhilabrus temminckii exhibits a peaceful and active temperament, though they can be quite shy when first introduced to a new environment. Once comfortable, they spend the day swimming gracefully in the mid-to-upper water column. While males will defend their territory against other males of the same genus, they are peaceful toward unrelated species and display fascinating social interactions in a harem.

Diet

Carnivore

Cirrhilabrus temminckii is a carnivorous planktivore that requires a diet rich in marine proteins. In the aquarium, they should be fed a varied diet of high-quality frozen foods, including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and lobster eggs. They will also readily accept premium marine pellets and flake foods once acclimated. A varied diet is crucial for preserving the brilliance of their coloration and long fin filaments.

Sex ratio

Harem

One male with a group of females (harem).

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Due to their high metabolic rate and constant swimming behavior, this species requires feeding two to three times daily. Offering small portions ensures that the food is completely consumed, preventing the accumulation of organic waste on the substrate. This feeding frequency supports the energy demands of this active fish, keeping it healthy. Automated feeders can help maintain this consistent schedule.

Bioload

Temminck's Fairy Wrasse possesses a high metabolic rate, requiring frequent daily feedings of mysis shrimp and other zooplankton mimics. This rigorous feeding necessity contributes to a moderate accumulation of organic waste in the aquarium. Utilizing chemical filtration and robust protein skimming will help maintain the pristine water conditions this species needs.

Flow

Strong

This wrasse prefers moderate to strong water flow to simulate the currents of their native reef slopes in Japan and Australia. Active water movement helps keep their food suspended, encouraging natural feeding behaviors in the water column. However, the aquascape must include caves and overhangs where the fish can find shelter and sleep peacefully at night.

Jump risk

Yes

Like its close relatives, Temminck's Fairy Wrasse is extremely flighty and will instinctively jump upwards when startled or pursued. They are incredibly agile and can slip through unsealed gaps near overflow boxes or cables. A thoroughly secured mesh screen cover is mandatory to prevent tragic losses.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Like other members of the genus, Cirrhilabrus temminckii 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 and extremely challenging due to the difficulty of raising their tiny pelagic larvae, which require specialized live feeds.

Compatibility & tankmates

Peaceful

This wrasse is an ideal candidate for reef aquariums as it is entirely reef-safe and does not bother corals, clams, or small invertebrates. It is highly compatible with other peaceful community fish, such as firefish, small gobies, and anthias. Because they are easily startled and are expert jumpers, a tightly fitting cover or mesh lid is absolutely mandatory for their aquarium.

Tank level

Middle

This active species spends the majority of its time prominently displayed in the upper and middle tiers of the aquarium's water column. They enjoy strong currents where they can eagerly hunt for passing food particles. By night, they seek out deep, sheltered crevices in the bottom rockwork to sleep hidden away from predators.