Lined Fairy Wrasse Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus lineatus, the purplelined wrasse, is a reef-associated labrid from the south-western Pacific kept in marine aquaria.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus lineatus, known as the purplelined or lined fairy wrasse, is a species of wrasse in the family Labridae. It was described by Randall and Lubbock in 1982. The trunk is lavender-pink suffused with yellow above and shading to pale yellow or white below, marked with longitudinal rows of purple spots and dashes. It is a reef-associated marine fish entering the aquarium trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus lineatus
- Authors: Randall & Lubbock, 1982
Habitat
The species occurs in the western central Pacific, from New Caledonia and the Loyalty Islands to the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits clear outer reef slopes. FishBase records a depth range of about 1 to 55 m, while Wikipedia notes it on coral reefs at roughly 20 to 55 m. Recorded ambient temperatures average around 26.6 °C.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 °dKH
- Size: 12-14 cm (FishBase max length 12 cm TL)
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
Like other members of its genus it is a carnivore. FishBase places the species at a trophic level of around 3.4. In the aquarium it should be offered meaty marine foods such as enriched brine shrimp, mysis and finely chopped seafood, fed several times daily.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, diurnal fish that swims in the middle of the water column and is considered reef-safe. It mixes well with calm marine community fish such as clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies, and should be kept away from aggressive damselfishes and triggerfishes. As a wrasse it is an accomplished jumper, so a tightly covered aquarium is advised.
Breeding
FishBase describes distinct pairing during breeding. Like most wrasses the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with females capable of changing into males, typically when larger males are absent. Captive breeding is regarded as extremely difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is taken by commercial fisheries and for the aquarium trade.