Common name: Scott's wrasse

General information

The Scott's Fairy Wrasse, Cirrhilabrus scottorum, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color to any reef aquarium. This species is part of the Labridae family and is known for its striking coloration, which can vary significantly between individuals and regions. Males typically display a rich palette of blue, purple, and red hues, while females and juveniles are more subdued in color.

Scott's Fairy Wrasses are known for their peaceful temperament and are often found swimming actively throughout the water column. They are a popular choice among aquarists due to their beauty and relatively easy care requirements.

Care

Scott's Fairy Wrasses thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are jumpers, so a tightly fitting lid or screen is essential to prevent escape. These wrasses do best in groups, with a single male and several females, as they exhibit a hierarchical social structure.

A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is important for their health. They are also known to accept high-quality dry and frozen preparations that are formulated for marine carnivores.

Reproduction

In the wild, Scott's Fairy Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females have the ability to turn into males if a dominant male is not present. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with a stable environment and proper care, it is possible to observe their fascinating courtship displays and spawning behavior.

Habitat

Scott's Fairy Wrasses are found in the Western Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Coral Sea, and north to the Marshall Islands. They prefer reef slopes and lagoon reefs where they can be seen swimming in loose aggregations at depths ranging from 5 to 35 meters.

Their natural habitat is characterized by clear waters with abundant coral growth, which provides both food and shelter. In the aquarium, replicating this environment with a mix of open swimming space and ample live rock will help these wrasses feel at home.