Overview
- Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly found around coral reefs and rocky reef slopes.
- Distinguished by its stunning red and pink fins, contrasted with a sleek body coloration.
- A peaceful and active species, making it an excellent choice for reef aquariums.
- Typically seen swimming in the middle to upper levels of the water column, often engaging in social behaviors.
- Best suited for an aquarium with stable water conditions, plenty of swimming space, and live rock formations.
Feeding
- Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild.
- Thrives on a diet of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
- Readily accepts high-quality pellet and flake foods enriched with marine proteins.
- Should be fed multiple small meals per day to maintain high energy levels and promote vibrant coloration.
- A varied diet including omega-3 and vitamin-enriched foods helps support overall health and immunity.
Habitat
- Prefers coral reef environments with moderate to strong water flow.
- Often found near reef edges and areas with an abundance of rock structures.
- Aquarium setups should include live rock to provide hiding places and encourage natural behaviors.
- Requires stable water parameters and high-quality filtration for optimal health.
- Providing shaded areas alongside open swimming space supports natural movement and exploration.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to ensure a stable environment.
- Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
- Requires frequent water changes and routine tank maintenance for long-term well-being.
- Reef-safe and does not pose a threat to corals or most invertebrates.
- Providing live rock structures helps create security and encourages natural activity.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful but may exhibit mild territorial behavior toward other fairy wrasses.
- Compatible with tangs, clownfish, gobies, and other non-aggressive reef fish.
- Best kept in a community setting with similarly sized fish to avoid unnecessary aggression.
- Should not be housed with overly aggressive species that may intimidate or outcompete it for food.
- Providing adequate space helps reduce competition and supports natural schooling behaviors.
Aquarium Behavior
- An active and inquisitive species that enjoys open water swimming.
- Frequently displays bright coloration, especially during social interactions or courtship.
- More comfortable and confident in an aquarium with ample hiding places.
- Providing a mix of swimming space and rock formations encourages natural behaviors.
- Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and actively interact during feeding times.