Magma Wrasse

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Cirrhilabrus shutmani is a deep-water wrasse native to the Western Pacific Ocean, specifically endemic to the volcanic reefs around Didicas Island in the northern Philippines. It inhabits rocky reefs and rubble slopes exposed to strong currents at depths ranging from 50 to 70 meters. In this habitat, the water is crystal clear and cooler than surface waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belonging to the family Labridae and the genus Cirrhilabrus, it is a relatively small fairy wrasse. It features a fusiform, slightly compressed body with large, reddish eyes adapted for low-light conditions. The dorsal and anal fins are rounded in adult specimens. The maximum size of adults is approximately 6.5 to 7.5 centimeters.

Social Behavior: Active and peaceful, spending its day swimming in the water column. In their natural habitat, they form small harems consisting of one dominant male and multiple females. They are peaceful toward most reef fish, but males will show aggressive territorial behavior toward other males of the same genus or similar wrasses.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: The coloration of mature males is spectacular, mimicking volcanic magma with a fiery orange-red body and bright yellow highlights on the dorsal fin and back. The pelvic fins are elongated and reddish. Females are less colorful, showing a mostly solid reddish-pink body with shorter, translucent fins.

Aquarium Setup: Requires an aquarium of at least 200-250 liters (approx. 50-65 gallons) with plenty of open swimming space and a high amount of live rock to provide caves and overhangs. Given its deep-water origins, dimmable or moderate lighting is preferred. A tight-fitting lid or mesh cover is absolutely necessary to prevent jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Zooplanktivorous, requiring multiple feedings throughout the day to support its high metabolic rate. The diet should be composed of high-quality frozen foods like mysis shrimp, calanus, enriched brine shrimp, and marine eggs. Once acclimated, they will accept marine flakes and small pellets.

Water Quality: Demands high-quality marine water with stable parameters. The temperature should be kept slightly cooler, between 21°C and 24°C. Keep pH at 8.1 to 8.4, specific gravity at 1.023 to 1.025, and nitrates low. A strong protein skimmer and good water movement are required for oxygenation.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Completely reef-safe, making them excellent candidates for reef tanks. They do not harm corals or ornamental invertebrates. They cohabitate well with peaceful reef fish like anthias, gobies, and non-aggressive tangs. Do not house them with aggressive fish that may bully them.

Aquarium Breeding: Spawning in home aquariums is not documented. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, beginning life as females before transitioning to males. Courtship involves highly active swimming displays where the male intensifies his bright colors to attract a female for pelagic spawning.

Risks and Diseases: The primary cause of mortality is jumping out of the tank if uncovered. Stress from aggressive tankmates can cause the fish to hide constantly, leading to starvation. They are moderately hardy but can contract marine ich (Cryptocaryon) if subjected to rapid temperature changes.