Temminck's Fairy Wrasse

Temminck's Fairy Wrasse: The Threadfin Jewel

The Temminck's Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus temminckii) is an exquisitely colored marine fish highly prized by reef aquarium hobbyists. Also known by the common names Threadfin Wrasse or Peacock Wrasse, this species is native to the vast Western Pacific, ranging from Japan down to Indonesia and parts of Australia.

As with all members of the Cirrhilabrus genus, the male Temminck's Wrasse is the showstopper, boasting a complex, vibrant palette that can vary significantly by collection location (phenotype). Typically, males display an olive-green to blue-green body, often with a reddish or orange wash over the back and head, accentuated by fine blue or metallic lines. Their most distinguishing features are their highly elongated, filamentous pelvic (ventral) fins, which give rise to the "Threadfin" common name and are dramatically spread during courtship displays known as "flashing." Females are typically duller, exhibiting an orange or reddish body color that fades to a paler underside.

This species is a very active, mid-water swimmer that requires a minimum aquarium size of 50 to 60 gallons to allow for adequate swimming space and room to hide among the live rock. Like all wrasses, a tight-fitting lid or screen top is absolutely mandatory, as they are expert jumpers when startled.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Temminck's Fairy Wrasse is a dedicated Carnivore (planktivore). In the wild, it forms aggregations to feed on zooplankton in the water column. In the aquarium, it must be fed multiple times a day (2-3 times) to support its high metabolism. Offer a varied diet of high-quality, meaty frozen foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and fine marine pellets or flake food. Consistent, high-quality nutrition is key to maintaining its brilliant colors.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Completely Reef Safe. This wrasse will not harm corals, soft corals, or most ornamental invertebrates, making it an ideal candidate for any peaceful reef aquarium.
• Temperament: The Temminck's Fairy Wrasse is generally Peaceful towards most other community fish. However, it can be aggressive toward other male fairy wrasses, especially those that look similar. It is best kept as a single male with a harem of females, or singly in a peaceful community tank. If housed with other wrasses, it should be one of the last fish introduced to the tank.
• Sleeping Habit: This wrasse sleeps in a mucus cocoon formed within the rockwork or substrate at night and does not require a deep sand bed to burrow into.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus temminckii
• Primary Common Name: Temminck's Fairy Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Threadfin Wrasse, Peacock Wrasse, Temmincki Wrasse
• Origin: Western Pacific (Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia)
• Max Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Active Jumper)
• Diet: Carnivore (Planktivore, needs frequent feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50-60+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Safe with all corals and most inverts)