Girdled Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus balteatus) Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus balteatus is a marine fairy wrasse from the Marshall Islands, reaching about 10 cm and feeding on zooplankton over reefs.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus balteatus is a marine fairy wrasse of the family Labridae. According to FishBase it is recorded from the Marshall Islands in the Western Central Pacific and reaches about 10 cm in total length. Like other Cirrhilabrus, males are larger and more colourful than females (Wikipedia).
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus balteatus
Habitat
FishBase records this species only from the Marshall Islands. It is reef-associated and lives at depths of about 7-22 m in tropical waters. The genus Cirrhilabrus is native to coral reefs and nearby habitats across the Indo-Pacific (Wikipedia).
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
- Substrate: sand
Diet
FishBase states that Cirrhilabrus balteatus feeds on zooplankton. In aquaria it is offered small meaty foods about twice daily according to the maintained care record.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, middle-water wrasse considered reef-safe. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies. Aggressive damsels and triggerfish are best avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Data Deficient (assessed 2009).