Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus lubbocki is a small western Pacific fairy wrasse of outer reefs that feeds on zooplankton; it is peaceful and reef compatible.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus lubbocki, Lubbock's fairy wrasse, is a small marine wrasse of the family Labridae described by Randall and Carpenter in 1980. It was named after marine biologist Hugh Roger Lubbock, who obtained the first specimen.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus lubbocki
- Described by Randall and Carpenter, 1980
Habitat
The species occurs in the western central Pacific, in the Philippines and Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia, with reports also from Malaysia, Japan and Palau. It lives on outer reefs over coral rubble or small branched coral heads, in moderately large groups at around 20-25 m. FishBase gives a depth range of about 4 to 45 m, usually 5-30 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH: 8-12
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Maximum size: about 8 cm total length (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Like other fairy wrasses, it jumps readily, so a secure cover is essential.
Diet
Lubbock's fairy wrasse is a carnivore that feeds on zooplankton. In aquaria it accepts meaty frozen and prepared marine foods in several small daily feedings.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, mid-water fairy wrasse for reef communities with clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies. Aggressive damsels and triggerfish should be avoided.
Reef compatibility
The species is reef safe and does not harm corals or ornamental invertebrates.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009).