Your Guide to Buying and Adding an Exquisite Fairy Wrasse to Your Tank

The Exquisite Fairy Wrasse, scientifically known as Cirrhilabrus exquisitus, is a vibrant, graceful fish that graces many reef tanks with its lively behaviours and radiant colours. Hailing from the waters of the Indian Ocean, this wrasse is popular for both its peaceful nature and captivating aesthetics.

Choosing the Right Exquisite Fairy Wrasse

When considering an Exquisite Fairy Wrasse:

• Observe the fish for vivid colours and an active demeanour.
• Ensure it is free from any visible signs of injury, disease, or parasites.

Physical Appearance

Traits of the Exquisite Fairy Wrasse:

• Males boast a vivid combination of blues, greens, and purples, often with orange or yellow accents.
• Females and juveniles have a more muted colouration, primarily red or pink.
• Adult wrasses can reach up to 4 inches in length.

Compatibility with Other Fish

Selecting tank companions:

• Exquisite Fairy Wrasses are peaceful and can coexist harmoniously with many other reef fish.
• Avoid tank mates that are overly aggressive or large enough to consider the wrasse as prey.

Reef Safe

Considering a reef environment:

• This wrasse is considered reef-safe.
• They typically do not harm corals or other invertebrates.

Suitable Tank Size

Meeting their space requirements:

• A tank size of 200 litres or larger is recommended.
• Provide ample swimming space along with crevices and hideouts.

Water Conditions

Maintaining optimal water conditions:

• Temperature: 22-26°C
• pH levels: 8.1-8.4.
• Specific gravity: 1.020-1.025.
• Consistent water quality with zero ammonia and nitrites, and low nitrates, is crucial.

Preparing Your Tank

Ensuring a hospitable environment:

• Incorporate a sandy substrate, as they will dive into it when threatened or resting.
• Plenty of live rock formations to provide both hideouts and territories.

Monitoring Behaviour

Behaviours to note:

• These wrasses are known for their lively, darting swims.
• They may bury themselves in the substrate at night or when stressed.
• Observe for any signs of bullying if housed with other wrasses, especially during the acclimation period.

Feeding Schedule

Meeting their nutritional needs:

• They have a carnivorous diet that includes mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods.
• It's ideal to feed them small amounts multiple times a day.

The Exquisite Fairy Wrasse is undoubtedly a gem in marine aquariums. With its captivating colours and graceful movements, it's bound to be a delightful addition to your reef environment. Proper care and a harmonious tank community will ensure its flourishing existence in your aquatic haven.