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.
