Magma Wrasse Initial Phase

Magma Wrasse Initial Phase

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cirrhilabrus shutmani

Overview
Reef Compatible: YES
Diet: Carnivor
Temperament: Docile
Origin: Philippines 

The Cirrhilabrus shutmani, also known as the Magma Fairy Wrasse, is a captivating fish discovered by RVS Fishworld in 2016 around the Didicas Volcano in the Babuyan Islands of the Philippines. Let’s dive into some intriguing details about this enchanting species:

1. Appearance and Habitat:

   • The Magma Fairy Wrasse belongs to the family Labridae and is a colorful species of tropical and subtropical fish.
   • Its body is predominantly red and orange
   • Found in tropical coral reefs, it inhabits depths ranging from 50 to 70 meters (160 to 230 feet).
   • These wrasses prefer steep slopes around coral reefs composed of loose rubble.

2. Etymology and Discovery:

   • The Magma Fairy Wrasse belongs to the Cirrhilabrus genus, which includes very small, colorful wrasses found over rubble bottoms in the Indo-Pacific.
   • Males and females are usually sexually dichromatic, and they live in small harems comprising a dominant male and a group of females.
   • This discovery adds to the total number of described fairy wrasse species, bringing the count to 56

3. Diet and Behavior:

   • Like most Labrids, the Magma Fairy Wrasse occupies various areas, including turtlegrass beds, sandy patch reefs, plain sand bottoms, coral reefs, and rocky flats.
   • Its carnivorous diet mainly consists of gastropods and bivalves.
   • Interestingly, its lava-like coloration serves as a survival feature, allowing it to blend in with its surroundings and avoid predation.
   • As with other wrasses, it exhibits a hermaphroditic sexual nature, being able to change from female to male (and vice versa) for reproductive purposes.

In summary, the Magma Fairy Wrasse is a gem of the ocean depths, combining vibrant colors, intriguing behavior, and a touch of volcanic magic.