Red-Fin Fairy Wrasse Care Guide
Cirrhilabrus rubripinnis, the redfin wrasse, is a zooplankton-feeding reef labrid from the Philippines and Indonesia.
Overview
Cirrhilabrus rubripinnis, the redfin wrasse, is a species of wrasse in the family Labridae, described by Randall and Carpenter in 1980. Males display bright red dorsal, anal and pelvic fins, the latter often drawn out into extremely long filaments. It is a reef-associated marine fish kept in the marine aquarium hobby.
Taxonomy
- Family: Labridae
- Genus: Cirrhilabrus
- Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus rubripinnis
- Authors: Randall & Carpenter, 1980
Habitat
The species is native to coral reefs of the western central Pacific in the Philippines and Indonesia. It occurs at depths of about 2 to 40 m, typically in small groups each dominated by a single male.
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: 8-10 cm (FishBase max length 9.1 cm TL)
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
FishBase reports that the species feeds on zooplankton in the water column, placing it at a trophic level of about 3.1. In the aquarium it should be offered frequent small meaty foods such as enriched brine shrimp and mysis.
Compatibility
This peaceful, diurnal, mid-water wrasse is considered reef-safe. It mixes well with clownfish, tangs, anthias and gobies, and should be kept away from aggressive damselfishes and triggerfishes. Because it lives in single-male groups, only one male should be kept per aquarium unless the tank is very large. A secure cover prevents 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 (assessed 2010).