Earle's Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus earlei) Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus earlei is a deepwater fairy wrasse from Palau and Micronesia, reaching about 7 cm on reef slopes at 60-110 m.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus earlei is a deepwater fairy wrasse of the family Labridae. According to FishBase it occurs around Palau and Micronesia in the Western Central Pacific and reaches about 6.9 cm standard length. Males are larger and more colourful than females (Wikipedia).
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus earlei
Habitat
FishBase records this species from Palau and Micronesia. It is reef-associated and lives deep, between about 60 and 110 m, on mixed coral, rubble and sand slopes along the bases of steep protected seaward reefs 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 earlei is a carnivore; FishBase lists a trophic level of 3.3. As with other fairy wrasses it takes small meaty foods, 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).