Quick Stats for Solar Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus solorensis)

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Solar Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus solorensis)

The Solar Fairy Wrasse, or Cirrhilabrus solorensis, is a beautiful and popular species in saltwater aquariums. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about keeping this species in your aquarium.

Habitat

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is found in the Western Pacific Ocean, specifically around Indonesia and the Philippines. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots.

Reef Safe

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is considered reef safe, meaning it can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.

Size

The Solar Fairy Wrasse can reach a maximum size of 3 inches.

Temperament

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. However, it may exhibit territorial behavior towards other wrasses or similar species.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males and females of the Solar Fairy Wrasse have different coloration. Males have a vibrant yellow body with blue and purple markings, while females have a duller coloration with less distinct markings.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Solar Fairy Wrasse is around 5 to 7 years, but with proper care, it can live even longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is a carnivorous species that feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and other meaty foods. In the aquarium, it can be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen and live foods, as well as pellet or flake foods specifically designed for carnivorous fish.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for the Solar Fairy Wrasse, provide plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas. Use live rock to create caves and crevices where the wrasse can retreat and explore.

Captive Bred Availability

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is occasionally available as captive-bred, but most specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier and better acclimated to aquarium conditions.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is generally compatible with other peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with other wrasses or similar species, as territorial aggression may occur.

5 Recommended Tankmates

1. Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Peaceful and colorful, the Firefish makes a great tankmate for the Solar Fairy Wrasse.

2. Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto) – This small and peaceful fish adds a splash of purple to the aquarium and is compatible with the Solar Fairy Wrasse.

3. Clownfish (Amphiprion species) – Clownfish are popular and compatible tankmates that can coexist peacefully with the Solar Fairy Wrasse.

4. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) – These shrimp add interest to the aquarium and help keep the fish clean by removing parasites.

5. Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) – This coral species can coexist with the Solar Fairy Wrasse, adding beauty to the reef tank.

Other Common Names

The Solar Fairy Wrasse is also known by other common names such as Sunburst Fairy Wrasse or Solar Fairy-Labrus.

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Popular Questions and Answers about the Solar Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus solorensis)

Q: What is the ideal tank size for the Solar Fairy Wrasse?

A: The minimum tank size for the Solar Fairy Wrasse is 30 gallons, but a larger tank with plenty of swimming space is recommended.

Q: Can the Solar Fairy Wrasse be kept in a reef aquarium?

A: Yes, the Solar Fairy Wrasse is considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.

Q: How often should I feed my Solar Fairy Wrasse?

A: It is recommended to feed the Solar Fairy Wrasse small amounts of food multiple times a day. This species has a high metabolism and benefits from frequent feedings.

Q: Can the Solar Fairy Wrasse be kept with aggressive fish?

A: Keeping the Solar Fairy Wrasse with aggressive fish is not recommended, as it may become stressed or injured. It is best to choose peaceful tankmates for this species.

Q: Does the Solar Fairy Wrasse require any special water parameters?

A: The Solar Fairy Wrasse prefers a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a salinity between 1.023-1.025, and a temperature of 72-78°F. It is important to maintain stable water conditions for the health of the fish.