Golden Rhomboid Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus Rhomboidalis)

The Golden Rhomboid Wrasse is one of the most beautiful and highly sought-after fairy wrasses. It features a brilliant golden-yellow body with iridescent purple and blue highlights, particularly around the fins and face. This species is not only prized for its stunning appearance but also for its peaceful temperament, making it an excellent choice for large reef tanks.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum, with open swimming space and ample hiding spots among live rock.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small invertebrates, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other high-quality frozen foods. A varied diet is essential for their health and coloration.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; gets along well with other tankmates, though males may become territorial with other wrasses of the same species. Best kept in pairs or harems with one male and multiple females.
• Skill Level: Intermediate; while generally hardy, they require stable water conditions and careful acclimatization.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and can be a vibrant addition to any reef environment.

Special Risk - Depth Acclimatization
Golden Rhomboid Wrasses are typically found in deeper waters (up to 200 feet), which can make acclimatizing them to an aquarium more challenging. Fish collected from deep water often require careful acclimation to handle the pressure differences. Ensuring proper acclimatization and stable water parameters is crucial for their long-term survival in captivity.

Special Requirement - Secure Lid
Like many wrasses, Golden Rhomboid Wrasses are known jumpers, especially when startled. It is essential to have a secure, tightly fitted lid on your aquarium to prevent them from jumping out. Their active swimming nature and tendency to leap make this a must for their safety.

Color Variation by Locality

• Western Pacific: Specimens from this region display a brilliant golden body with purple and blue accents, with males exhibiting brighter, more defined coloration, especially during courtship​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Golden Rhomboid Wrasse is found in the deeper coral reefs of the Western Pacific, particularly around Palau and other Micronesian islands. They are often seen swimming among the rocky structures and reef slopes at significant depths.