Common name: Lubbock's wrasse
General information
Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse, scientifically known as Cirrhilabrus lubbocki, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. Males are particularly striking with their bright coloration, exhibiting a mix of purples, blues, and reds, while females and juveniles tend to have a more subdued palette. This species is named after the ichthyologist Hugh Roger Lubbock.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 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
- 9 cm (3½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adapts well to aquarium life
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
- Social
- Harem Best in groups, with more females
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Available as captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyWrassesLabridae
- GenusFairy WrassesCirrhilabrus
- SpeciesLubbock's wrasseCirrhilabrus lubbocki Randall & Carpenter, 1980
Care
Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse is a hardy species suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and caves for hiding. This species is known for its jumping ability, so a tightly fitting lid is essential to prevent escape. They are not aggressive towards most tankmates and can be kept with a variety of other fish. A diet of small, meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood will help maintain their vibrant colors and health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse forms harems consisting of a dominant male and several females. In captivity, they may spawn if the environment is stable and well-maintained. The male performs an elaborate courtship dance to entice the females. If successful, the pair will release eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs.
Habitat
Native to the Western Pacific, Lubbock's Fairy Wrasse can be found in coral-rich areas and lagoons. They prefer habitats with plenty of live rock and coral where they can forage for food and hide from predators. In the wild, they are typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.