Girdled Fairy Wrasse

Girdled Fairy Wrasse

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cirrhilabrus balteatus

Overview
Reef Compatible: YES
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Docile
Origin: Central Pacific

Cirrhilabrus balteatus, also known as the girdled fairy-wrasse, is a captivating species of fish found in the aquarium trade. In its natural habitat, it inhabits the Western Pacific Ocean near the Marshall Islands. However, specific population numbers remain unknown. Let’s explore some intriguing details about this enchanting fish:

• Appearance: Female Cirrhilabrus balteatus individuals exhibit a drab reddish-pink coloration with a white belly. In contrast, the male displays a body that varies in colors from purple to pink or greenish-yellow. Notably, the male has extremely long pelvic fins.
• Size: These fairy-wrasses reach a size of approximately 4 inches.
• Diet: Cirrhilabrus balteatus feeds on zooplankton.
• Biogeography: The species’ distribution spans from Japan southward to Indonesia, the Philippines, and Western Australia. Within this range, at least four distinct phenotypes of Cirrhilabrus balteatus can be found, adding to the intrigue of this group.

Next time you encounter a girdled fairy-wrasse, appreciate its unique coloration and the mysteries that surround its taxonomic relationships!