Common name: Beau’s wrasse

Scientific name: Cirrhilabrus beauperryi Allen, Drew & Barber, 2008

General information

Beauperry's Fairy Wrasse, scientifically known as Cirrhilabrus beauperryi, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is part of the wrasse family and is known for its striking coloration, which includes a mix of green, blue, and purple hues that can vary depending on the individual and its environment.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
150 liter (40 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy May jump; needs a lid
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
Social
Harem Best in groups, 1 male
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Wrasses
    Labridae
  6. Genus
    Fairy Wrasses
    Cirrhilabrus
  7. Species
    Beau’s wrasse
    Cirrhilabrus beauperryi Allen, Drew & Barber, 2008

Care

Beauperry's Fairy Wrasse is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health. It's important to have a tightly fitting lid as wrasses are known to jump when startled or stressed.

Reproduction

In the wild, Beauperry's Fairy Wrasse forms harems consisting of a dominant male and several females. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females have the ability to turn into males if the dominant male is no longer present. Breeding in captivity is challenging but possible with a well-maintained environment and careful attention to their social dynamics.

Habitat

Beauperry's Fairy Wrasse is found in the Western Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to New Caledonia, and inhabits coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs. They prefer depths ranging from 5 to 35 meters where they can be seen darting among the corals and rocks.