Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus filamentosus)

Fish in the family Labridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.

Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse

Quick facts

Scientific nameCirrhilabrus filamentosus
FamilyLabridae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

A small, elongated wrasse displaying a vibrant mix of orange, red, and yellow coloration with distinctive long, filamentous dorsal fin rays that extend beyond the body. Males exhibit brighter coloration than females, with the characteristic whip-like dorsal filaments being particularly pronounced.

Diet and feeding

Feed high-quality carnivorous foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small pellets formulated for wrasses. Supplement with frozen copepods to mimic natural plankton feeding behavior. Feed 2-3 times daily in small amounts.

Difficulty and care for the Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, particularly found around the Philippines, Indonesia, and other coral reef areas of the western Pacific.

Log Whip Fin 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 Whip Fin Fairy Wrasse alongside everything else in your reef.