Lineatus Wrasse

The Lineatus Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lineatus) is a fairy wrasse with a lavender-to-yellow base color and fine blue striping across the head and body, with adult males showing noticeably extended pelvic fins. Native to reefs around New Caledonia and Australia, it spends the day moving between rockwork and open water in steady patrol routes.

What You’ll Observe:

• Frequent midwater cruising with quick turns through arches and gaps in the rockwork
• Short “display” moments where the fins extend and colors look more contrasted
• A consistent daily routine—out and active during the day, then retiring to a favorite crevice to rest
• Confident feeding behavior once it learns where food enters the tank

Provide an established reef with plenty of rock structure for shelter plus open lanes for swimming. Offer small meaty foods and quality pellets in a few smaller feedings to match its active pace. Use a tight-fitting cover, and consider a social acclimation box when introducing it to a tank with established wrasses.

How long should I keep a Lineatus Wrasse in an acclimation box?
Many hobbyists run anywhere from a few days to around two weeks, depending on how “wrasse-heavy” the display is. The goal is to let everyone see each other without contact, then release once attention drops.

Is it normal for a new Lineatus Wrasse to hide most of the day at first?
Yes—new arrivals often pick one protected spot and only make brief appearances until they settle into the tank’s routine, especially around feeding time.

Can I keep more than one Lineatus Wrasse together?
In larger systems, many keepers plan for one male with a female rather than adding another male, since that pairing tends to produce more stable day-to-day interactions.

Why is my Lineatus being chased by another “peaceful” wrasse?
Fairy wrasses can still posture with similar-shaped or similarly colored wrasses, especially when one fish is already established. A slower, staged introduction is often what makes the difference.

What does “super male” mean for this species?
It refers to the fully developed terminal-phase male coloration and fin presentation; like many fairy wrasses, a female can transition to male when it becomes biologically favorable.

Each fish is checked for strong appetite and activity before we approve it for your tank.