Common name: Johnson's wrasse

General information

The Johnson's Fairy Wrasse, Cirrhilabrus johnsoni, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color to any saltwater aquarium. This species is part of the wrasse family and is known for its striking red and orange hues, accented with blue and purple along its body and fins. The males are particularly colorful, especially during courtship displays when their colors intensify.

Care

Johnson's Fairy Wrasses are relatively hardy and can adapt to a variety of aquarium conditions. They thrive in well-established tanks with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. A tight-fitting lid is essential as these wrasses are known jumpers. They require a diet rich in meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Johnson's Fairy Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male if the dominant male is no longer present. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a group of females and one male, spawning may occur. The male performs an elaborate dance to entice the females to release eggs, which are then fertilized in the water column.

Habitat

Native to the Western Pacific, particularly around the Marshall Islands, Johnson's Fairy Wrasses are found in coral-rich areas and slopes of outer reefs. They prefer depths ranging from 25 to 60 meters where they can be seen darting among the corals and rocks.