Red-Head Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus solorensis)
Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
Small labrid wrasse with males displaying brilliant red to orange coloration on the head and anterior body, fading to yellowish posteriorly, while females are predominantly yellow-orange. The body is slender and elongated with a pointed snout, reaching approximately 5 inches at maturity. Distinctive pronounced sexual dimorphism, with males being more vibrantly colored than females.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied diet of small meaty foods including high-quality frozen or live copepods, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small prepared pellets formulated for wrasses. Supplement with occasional vegetable matter and ensure frequent feeding of small portions due to high metabolic rate.
Difficulty and care for the Red-Head Fairy Wrasse
Moderate difficulty. Requires a mature, well-established reef aquarium with abundant live rock for foraging and hiding, stable water parameters, and frequent small feedings. Compatible with peaceful tankmates but may quarrel with other small wrasses or aggressive fish.
Common health issues
Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from Indonesia (Solor Island area) through the Philippines to the Great Barrier Reef and northward to the Ryukyu Islands. Found in coral reef habitats at depths of 5–50 meters.
Log Red-Head Fairy Wrasse in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Red-Head Fairy Wrasse alongside everything else in your reef.