Cirrhilabrus cf. exquisitus

Hardy, active fairy wrasse for large reef systems. Jumps, so a cover is mandatory.

Quick facts

• Adult size: ~10–12 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful, active swimmer

• Reef-safe: Yes (with inverts and corals)

• Minimum tank: 90 gal / 340 l

• Placement: Open water above rockwork

• Cover: Tight-fitting lid or mesh top required

Aquarium requirements

• Tank size: ≥ 90 gal to provide long swimming runs.

• Lid: Escape artist. Use a tight, gap-free canopy or mesh.

• Aquascape: Plenty of live rock with caves and overhangs for shelter and sleeping.

• Water: pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025, temp 22–26 °C (72–78 °F). Keep parameters stable.

• Flow: Moderate to strong circulation with calmer eddies for resting.

Diet

• Frequency: Small portions multiple times daily.

• Foods: Vitamin-enriched mysis and brine shrimp, finely chopped marine meaty foods, high-quality marine pellets and flakes. Offer variety to maintain color and body condition.

Social considerations

• Males: Keep a single male per tank. Males can be aggressive to other males.

• Introduction order: Add near last to reduce harassment from established tankmates.

• Tankmates: Peaceful reef fish of similar size are suitable; avoid large bullies.

Husbandry tips

• Provide dusk/dawn lighting ramp to reduce startle jumps.

• Use acclimation box when adding to established communities.

• Secure all openings around plumbing, cables, and lid corners.