Tri-Color Fairy Wrasse

⭐ Core Identity A small, peaceful fairy wrasse from the Philippines and Indonesia, known for its three‑tone coloration, active swimming behavior, and excellent compatibility with reef systems. It’s one of the more forgiving Cirrhilabrus species, making it a strong choice for mixed‑reef retail tanks. 🎨 Appearance Adult males show orange‑red body, purple/blue dorsal region, and yellow highlights Females/subadults are more subdued, typically orange‑pink with faint purple tones Color intensifies with hierarchy, good nutrition, and low stress Max size: ~3 inches (smaller than many fairy wrasses) 🧠 Temperament & Behavior Peaceful, active swimmer; rarely bothers tankmates Displays short bursts of “fairy wrasse dancing” when interacting with conspecifics May establish a mild hierarchy if multiple are kept, but aggression is minimal Reef‑safe — does not nip corals or ornamental inverts 🏝️ Habitat & Tank Requirements Minimum tank: 55 gallons (your 50‑gallon display is fine) Strong preference for tight‑fitting lids — expert jumpers Moderate flow, ample rockwork, and open swimming lanes Does not require sand for sleeping; uses rock crevices Ideal for community reefs, including SPS systems 🍽️ Diet Carnivore; thrives on: Mysis shrimp Calanus Copepods High‑quality micro‑pellets (e.g., TDO, PE pellets) Benefits from small, frequent feedings Excellent candidate for conditioning with your shop’s frozen blends 🩺 Hardiness & Care Level Generally hardy once acclimated Sensitive to: Ammonia spikes Rough handling Sudden parameter swings Responds well to mild copper or CP if needed, but avoid heavy copper levels Quarantine-friendly; adapts quickly to prepared foods 👫 Compatibility Works well with: Other fairy wrasses Flasher wrasses Peaceful reef fish Avoid: Large, aggressive wrasses (Thalassoma, some Halichoeres) Territorial dottybacks Can be kept in small harems (1 male + 2–3 females) 🔄 Sexing & Social Structure Females can transition to males Males show: Brighter coloration Slightly elongated fins Display behavior If you stock multiple, expect one to become dominant within weeks 📦 Retail Notes for Seahorse Aquarium Supply Strong seller for nano‑to‑mid‑size reef customers Coloration photographs well for your website’s livestock pages Low aggression makes it ideal for mixed wrasse displays Customers appreciate its budget‑friendly price point compared to more exotic Cirrhilabrus species 🧭 Quick Summary Size: 3″ Temperament: Peaceful Reef Safe: Yes Diet: Carnivore Minimum Tank: 55 gallons Care Level: Moderate Jump Risk: Very high Origin: Philippines, Indonesia