Cirrhilabrus katoi, also known as the Kato’s Fairy Wrasse, is a captivating dwarf marine angelfish native to Japan. These vibrant fish are typically found in groups at depths ranging from 20 to 40 meters (66 to 131 feet). Their striking appearance includes a bright yellow front half and a dark metallic blue rear portion. A horizontal lateral stripe connects the base of the pectoral fin to the caudal peduncle, and shorter stripes and spots adorn their face and body. The dorsal and anal fins display cryptic scrawling in celestial greens and blues. The caudal fin is yellow with an emerald green sheen, and its ventral fins are long but never trailing. Cirrhilabrus katoi is exceedingly rare in the trade, making its appearance from the Philippines a much-needed delight for wrasse aficionados. Interestingly, this is the first record of the species breaking out of its previously known endemism, representing a geographical range extension.
