Deepwater Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus) Care Guide

Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus is a deepwater fairy wrasse from the Coral Sea, living on reefs as deep as 60-217 m.

Overview

Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus is a deepwater fairy wrasse of the family Labridae. According to FishBase it occurs in the Coral Sea, at Holmes Reef and Chesterfield Bank, and reaches about 7.6 cm standard length. Males are larger and more colourful than females (Wikipedia).

Taxonomy

Family: Labridae
Genus: Cirrhilabrus
Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus

Habitat

FishBase records this species from the Western Pacific Coral Sea (Holmes Reef and Chesterfield Bank). It is a benthic, reef-associated species that lives at considerable depth, between about 60 and 217 m in tropical waters.

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

Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus is a carnivore. As with other fairy wrasses it takes small meaty foods; it is fed 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, while aggressive damsels and triggerfish are best avoided.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009).