Blue-sided fairy wrasse
Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura
This fish has an elongated body with bright blue sides contrasting with an orange-red back. The fins are often edged in yellow. Dominant males develop longer dorsal and anal fins. It is very active and swims in open water, feeding on zooplankton. It is a gregarious species that can be kept in groups if the tank is large enough. It is generally peaceful, but males can be aggressive toward each other.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| GH | 8–12 |
| KH | 8–12 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.05 |
Care
Care notes
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A minimum 200-liter tank is recommended. Varied diet: mysis, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Compatible with most reef fish, but avoid aggressive wrasses. A lid is necessary. Parameters must be stable: nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 0.05 mg/L. Moderate lighting and good filtration are recommended. It may jump, so a lid is essential.