Whipfin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus Filamentosus)r

The Whipfin Fairy Wrasse, also known as the Filamented Fairy Wrasse, is a beautiful and energetic fish known for its vibrant color patterns and flowing, elongated dorsal and caudal fins. Males of this species develop stunning coloration and “whip-like” filaments on their fins, especially during courtship displays. This wrasse is peaceful and reef-safe, making it a popular choice for marine aquariums. Like most fairy wrasses, the Whipfin Fairy Wrasse is an active swimmer and requires a tank with plenty of open swimming space and a secure lid to prevent jumping.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; a spacious tank with rockwork for hiding and open swimming areas is recommended.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. A varied diet that includes high-quality frozen and pellet foods will help maintain its vibrant coloration.
• Water Temp: 74-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; generally gets along well with other peaceful tankmates. Males may show some aggression towards other male wrasses of similar species, so it is best kept singly or in groups with one male and multiple females.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for aquarists of all experience levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an excellent choice for reef tanks.

Special Requirement - Secure Lid
The Whipfin Fairy Wrasse is a known jumper and will leap out of the tank if startled or excited. It is essential to have a secure, tightly fitted lid on the aquarium to prevent this behavior. Providing a calm, low-stress environment with plenty of hiding spots will help the fish feel more secure.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Whipfin Fairy Wrasse is known for its dazzling colors, with males displaying a mix of pink, red, and purple hues, highlighted by flowing filaments on the dorsal and caudal fins. During courtship, these colors become even more vivid, making it a visually striking fish in any tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and rocky areas where it swims in the open water column, foraging for plankton and small invertebrates.