Yellow-Banded Fairy Wrasse Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus luteovittatus, the yellowband wrasse, is a zooplankton-feeding labrid from the central Pacific kept in reef aquaria.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus luteovittatus, the yellowband wrasse, is a species of wrasse in the family Labridae, described by Randall in 1988. In its initial phase the body is orange-red, becoming nearly white ventrally. It is a reef-associated marine fish kept in the marine aquarium hobby.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus luteovittatus
- Author: Randall, 1988
Habitat
The species is native to coral reefs of the central Pacific, recorded from Pohnpei, the Caroline Islands and the Marshall Islands, with strays occasionally reaching Johnston Atoll. It occurs in small groups over lagoon patch reefs at depths of about 7 to 30 m. Recorded ambient temperatures average around 28.9 °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: 10-12 cm (FishBase max length 12 cm TL)
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
FishBase reports that the species feeds on zooplankton in the water column, consistent with a carnivorous diet at a trophic level of around 3.4. In captivity it should receive frequent small meaty feeds such as enriched brine shrimp and mysis.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, diurnal, mid-water swimmer that is reef-safe. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies, while aggressive damselfishes and triggerfishes should be avoided. As a wrasse it can jump, so the aquarium should be securely covered.
Breeding
FishBase notes distinct pairing during breeding. Like other fairy wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. Captive breeding is regarded as expert-level and rarely achieved.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.