Blueside Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus Cyanopleura)

The Blueside Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura) is a vibrant and peaceful marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, making it an exceptional centerpiece for established saltwater aquariums. Males showcase remarkable sexual dimorphism, featuring iridescent blue or deep purple forebodies contrasted with rich maroon, red, or yellow hues and dynamic flashing behaviors.

As an active open-water swimmer, this species thrives in community reef environments without disturbing corals or sessile invertebrates. Its hardy nature and peaceful disposition make it an ideal choice for aquarists seeking brilliant color and continuous motion.

Key Features

Highlights

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura
• Primary Common Name: Blueside Fairy Wrasse
• Other Common Names: Bluehead Fairy Wrasse, Yellowflanked Fairy Wrasse, Blue Scaled Fairy Wrasse
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread, including Indonesia, Philippines, and Great Barrier Reef)
• Max Size: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful / Active
• Diet: Carnivore (Zooplankton feeder)
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 Gallons (50 gallons often cited for small specimens, but 75+ gallons is recommended for long-term health and activity).
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Safe with corals and most invertebrates)

Materials & care

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Blueside Fairy Wrasse is a Carnivore that feeds primarily on zooplankton and small, benthic invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, a robust diet is crucial for maintaining their vibrant colors and high activity level. Feed high-quality, vitamin-enriched frozen foods (especially mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods) as well as quality marine flakes and pellets.
• Feeding: Due to their high metabolism, they require multiple small feedings (2 to 3 times) per day to stay healthy.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe. This wrasse is a true zooplankton feeder and will not bother corals, clams, or sessile invertebrates. Caution is always advised with the smallest ornamental shrimp (like Thor species), but they are generally safe with most inverts.
• Temperament: Peaceful and Active. The Blueside Fairy Wrasse is a great community fish, but the males can show aggression towards other male Fairy Wrasses (Cirrhilabrus genus), particularly those similar in size or color. It is best kept as a single male, or as a harem (one male with multiple females) introduced simultaneously into a larger system. They should not be kept with overly aggressive tankmates.
• Aquarium Cover: A tight-fitting lid is essential. Like all Fairy Wrasses, this species is prone to jumping, especially when stressed or startled.

Compatibility

Peaceful community fish that coexists well with non-aggressive tankmates and reef invertebrates. Males may show aggression toward other male fairy wrasses of similar appearance; keep as a single specimen or as a harem in larger aquariums.

Important Fulfillment Information

Fish and corals ship Monday through Thursday. Not all fish are sexed. If so it will specify.

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Shipping Cost Disclosure

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