Red and Blue Fairy Wrasse

Red and Blue Fairy Wrasse: The Zooplankton Hunter

The Red and Blue Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura), also frequently known as the Blueside Fairy Wrasse, Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse, or Bluehead Fairy Wrasse, is one of the most popular and variable species in the Cirrhilabrus genus. This highly active fish exhibits different color morphs based on its region of origin and sexual phase.

Initial phase (IP) females and males are typically a reddish-maroon to yellow-orange color. Terminal phase (TP) males are stunning, displaying a prominent blue to purple patch on the flanks, often transitioning into a rich red or orange dorsally and a bright yellow or green on the face, living up to the "red & blue" name. Males also intensify these colors and "flash" during courtship or territorial displays, a captivating spectacle for the hobbyist.

Originating from the Indo-Pacific, this wrasse is a medium-sized species, reaching a maximum body length of approximately 5 to 6 inches (12-15 cm). Due to their constant swimming and active nature, a minimum aquarium size of 75 gallons is recommended to provide ample space. As with all wrasses, a tight-fitting lid is essential, as they are notorious jumpers, especially when startled.

The Red & Blue Fairy Wrasse is a valuable addition to most community tanks, providing movement and color without aggression toward most tankmates.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This wrasse is a Carnivore and a dedicated planktivore, spending its day picking tiny zooplankton and micro-invertebrates from the water column and live rock. In the aquarium, it must be fed small, meaty foods multiple times per day (2-3 times) due to its high metabolism. A suitable diet includes vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp, cyclops, brine shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets and flakes.
• Reef Compatibility: It is generally considered Reef Safe. The Red & Blue Fairy Wrasse will not bother corals, clams, or sessile invertebrates. Caution should be exercised with very tiny ornamental shrimp (like 'Sexy Shrimp'), but they are typically safe with larger shrimp and other common cleanup crew members.
• Temperament: It is Peaceful and Active. This species is an excellent community fish. Males, however, will be territorial toward other males of the same species or closely related Cirrhilabrus wrasses. It is best kept as a single male, or in a harem (one male with several smaller females) if introduced simultaneously into a large system. It should not be housed with overly aggressive fish that may bully it.
• Sleeping Behavior: Unlike some wrasses, this species does not always bury in the sand, but a soft, fine sand bed is still appreciated. It is known to spin a protective mucus cocoon to sleep in at night, often tucked into a crevice in the live rock.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura
• Primary Common Name: Red and Blue Fairy Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Blueside Fairy Wrasse, Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse, Bluehead Fairy Wrasse
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
• Max Size: 5-6 inches (12-15 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful / Active (Jumper)
• Diet: Carnivore (Zooplankton Feeder, needs multiple daily feedings)
• Minimum Tank Size: 75+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Safe with corals and most invertebrates)