Common name: Cirrhilabrus sanguineus

General information

The Cirrhilabrus sanguineus, commonly known as the Red Velvet Fairy Wrasse or Blood Red Fairy Wrasse, is a striking species of wrasse known for its vibrant red coloration and dynamic swimming behavior. This species is a part of the diverse and colorful Cirrhilabrus genus, which is highly sought after by aquarists for their beauty and relatively peaceful nature.

Care

Red Velvet Fairy Wrasses are active swimmers and require an aquarium with plenty of open space for swimming as well as rockwork or coral for hiding and sleeping. They are known to jump, so a tightly fitting lid or screen is essential to prevent escape. These wrasses are not overly aggressive and can be kept with a variety of other peaceful fish. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

Like many wrasses, Cirrhilabrus sanguineus is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals start life as females and can change to males as they mature. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but establishing a harem with one male and several females may encourage natural reproductive behaviors.

Habitat

Cirrhilabrus sanguineus is found in the Western Pacific, particularly around Indonesia and the Philippines. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. In their natural habitat, they are often observed darting among stony and soft corals, which provide both food and shelter.