Pink-Banded Fairy Wrasse Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus roseafascia, the pink-banded fairy wrasse, is a deeper-water reef labrid first recorded from New Caledonia.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus roseafascia, the pink-banded fairy wrasse, is a species of wrasse in the family Labridae, described by Randall and Lubbock in 1982. It is a reef-associated marine fish that occurs deeper than many of its relatives and enters the aquarium trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus roseafascia
- Authors: Randall & Lubbock, 1982
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the western central Pacific at Bulari Pass, New Caledonia. It aggregates on coral reefs or over rocky and rubble bottoms at a depth range of about 30 to 100 m, making it one of the deeper-dwelling fairy wrasses.
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: 12-13 cm (FishBase max length 10 cm TL)
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
It is a carnivore at a trophic level of around 3.4 according to FishBase. In the aquarium it should be offered small meaty marine foods such as enriched brine shrimp and mysis fed several times a day. Because it originates from deeper water, gradual acclimatisation to aquarium lighting is advisable.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, diurnal, mid-water wrasse considered reef-safe. Suitable companions include clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies, while aggressive damselfishes and triggerfishes should be avoided. A secure cover is recommended to prevent jumping.
Breeding
FishBase notes distinct pairing during breeding. The species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, and captive reproduction is regarded as extremely difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.