Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse - Cirrhilabrus lubbocki

The Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse is a stunning and colorful species of wrasse that is highly sought after by marine aquarists for its vibrant appearance and peaceful nature. This beautiful fish is native to the Indo-Pacific and is known for its striking colors and energetic swimming behavior.

Description:

• Common Name: Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus lubbocki

• Family: Labridae

• Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)

• Coloration: The Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse is distinguished by its vibrant and beautiful coloration. It displays a mix of red, pink, and purple shades, with a subtle yellow or orange hue along the tail and fins. The males are more colorful, exhibiting brighter and more intense colors, while females are generally more subdued in their coloration. The fish’s elongated body and flowing fins add to its elegant appearance.

Native Region:

The Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs in the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It prefers shallow, reef environments where it can seek refuge among rocks and coral.

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) for a single fish, but larger tanks are preferred if keeping multiple wrasses or other fish.

• Substrate: A sandy or fine-gravel substrate is best, providing plenty of space for the wrasse to search for food and hide in crevices when needed.

• Live Rock: This species enjoys plenty of live rock in the aquarium, as it provides hiding spots and helps simulate its natural reef habitat. It also encourages the growth of microfauna, which can provide additional natural food sources.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity

• Hardness: 8-12 dKH

Care Level:

• Difficulty: Moderate. The Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse requires a well-maintained tank with stable water parameters and a varied diet. While it is generally hardy, it can be sensitive to sudden changes in water conditions, so a seasoned aquarist is recommended for this species.

• Diet: Carnivorous, the Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse feeds on small invertebrates and plankton in the wild. In the aquarium, it will readily accept high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It may also eat pelleted foods designed for carnivorous fish.

• Behavior: This wrasse is generally peaceful and can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species. It is active, and you’ll often find it swimming gracefully among the rocks, though it may retreat into crevices for safety.

Reef Compatibility:

• Reef-Safe: Yes, Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse is generally reef-safe. It will not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an excellent addition to a reef aquarium. However, it may occasionally nip at small crustaceans or other invertebrates, so care should be taken when keeping it with very delicate or small species.

Tank Mates:

• Suitable Companions: Peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive fish, such as gobies, clownfish, and other wrasses of similar temperament. It is also a good addition to reef tanks, as it does not pose a threat to corals or other reef dwellers.

• Avoid: Larger or more aggressive fish, especially predatory species that might see the wrasse as food. Also, avoid keeping multiple wrasses of the same species in a small tank, as they may become territorial.

Additional Tips:

• Feeding Needs: Since this fish is carnivorous, a varied diet of frozen foods, live foods, and high-quality flakes or pellets is necessary to keep it healthy. It is particularly important to provide foods rich in protein and essential nutrients to maintain its coloration.

• Social Behavior: While peaceful, the Lubbock’s Fairy Wrasse can be a bit shy when first introduced to a new tank. It may take some time to adjust to its new environment, so be patient and allow it space to feel secure. It is best to introduce it into a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters and minimal disturbances.