Cirrhilabrus balteatus, commonly known as the girdled fairy wrasse, is a stunning addition to any marine aquarium. Available as pairs in various sizes, these wrasses display vibrant colours and graceful swimming behaviour, making them a favourite among experienced hobbyists.
Care Level: Moderate – best suited for aquarists with some marine experience.
Temperament: Peaceful and generally compatible with other non-aggressive tank mates. Males may show territorial behaviour towards conspecifics, so keeping a single pair is recommended.
Diet: Carnivorous; thrives on a varied diet including high-quality frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and specialised marine pellets. Regular feeding 2-3 times daily is ideal.
Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 120 litres (approximately 30 gallons) is recommended to provide ample swimming space and reduce territorial stress.
Reef Compatibility: Yes, Cirrhilabrus balteatus is reef safe and can be kept with corals and invertebrates without issue.
Lighting and Water Flow: Moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow replicate their natural reef environment and promote healthy behaviour.
Placement: Mid to lower levels of the aquarium, where they can dart among rocks and corals.
Origin: Native to the Western Pacific region.
Maximum Size: Up to 8 cm (3 inches) in length.
When introducing Cirrhilabrus balteatus pairs, ensure stable water parameters and a well-established tank to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. They are best housed in mature reef setups with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.