Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse

Blueside Fairy Wrasse: A Vivid and Peaceful Reef Dweller

The Blueside Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura) is a highly variable and gorgeous wrasse from the Indo-Pacific region, making it a popular choice for reef aquariums. It is known by several common names, including the Bluehead Fairy Wrasse and the Yellowflanked Fairy Wrasse, reflecting the species' wide range of regional color morphs.

Like all Cirrhilabrus species, the male exhibits brilliant sexual dimorphism and "flashing" behavior. The coloration on a male is striking: the anterior (front) half of the body is often iridescent blue or deep purple, while the posterior (back) half is typically red, maroon, or yellow, sometimes with a distinct yellow patch near the pectoral fin.

This species is known to be peaceful and hardy, thriving in established reef environments where it actively swims in the water column and provides fantastic color and movement.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Blueside Fairy Wrasse is a Carnivore that feeds primarily on zooplankton and small, benthic invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, a robust diet is crucial for maintaining their vibrant colors and high activity level. Feed high-quality, vitamin-enriched frozen foods (especially mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods) as well as quality marine flakes and pellets.
• Feeding: Due to their high metabolism, they require multiple small feedings (2 to 3 times) per day to stay healthy.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe. This wrasse is a true zooplankton feeder and will not bother corals, clams, or sessile invertebrates. Caution is always advised with the smallest ornamental shrimp (like Thor species), but they are generally safe with most inverts.
• Temperament: Peaceful and Active. The Blueside Fairy Wrasse is a great community fish, but the males can show aggression towards other male Fairy Wrasses (Cirrhilabrus genus), particularly those similar in size or color. It is best kept as a single male, or as a harem (one male with multiple females) introduced simultaneously into a larger system. They should not be kept with overly aggressive tankmates.
• Aquarium Cover: A tight-fitting lid is essential. Like all Fairy Wrasses, this species is prone to jumping, especially when stressed or startled.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura
• Primary Common Name: Blueside Fairy Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Bluehead Fairy Wrasse, Yellowflanked Fairy Wrasse, Blue Scaled Fairy Wrasse
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread, including Indonesia, Philippines, and Great Barrier Reef)
• Max Size: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful / Active
• Diet: Carnivore (Zooplankton feeder)
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 Gallons (50 gallons often cited for small specimens, but 75+ gallons is recommended for long-term health and activity).
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Safe with corals and most invertebrates)