Cirrhilabrus joanallenae - Joan's Fairy Wrasse

The Cirrhilabrus joanallenae, known as Joan's Fairy Wrasse, is a stunningly beautiful marine fish native to the deep waters off Sumatra, Indonesia. Described in 2006, this small wrasse stands out for its vibrant coloration: adult males display an intense red-magenta body with blue highlights on the dorsal and anal fins, while females show softer shades of orange and pink.

Feeding: Carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton in the wild. In the aquarium, it should receive a varied diet of small crustaceans (mysis, brine shrimp, krill), zooplankton (Cyclops, pods), and vitamin-enriched frozen foods. Should be fed several times a day, especially in the first days after introduction. Will eventually accept high-quality marine flakes and pellets.

Care: This species is known to jump from open aquariums, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. It is sensitive during transport and acclimatization, requiring a slow and careful acclimation. Needs good hiding places among live rocks and plenty of swimming space. Maintain stable water parameters: sg 1.020-1.025, temperature 22-26°C (72-79°F), dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4.

Behavior: Peaceful and quite shy species, especially when recently introduced. Functions best as a pair (male and female) or in small harems (one male with several females). Should not be kept with aggressive or much larger fish that may intimidate it. Can be kept with other Cirrhilabrus provided there is sufficient space and they are introduced simultaneously. Protogynous hermaphrodite: females can change to male in the absence of a dominant male.

Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe. Does not bother corals, anemones, or sessile invertebrates. Is an excellent natural controller of small parasites and flatworms.

Foto ilustrativa. | Illustrative photo.