Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura)

Max Size: 5 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons

The Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse, also referred to as the Blue Scaled Fairy Wrasse, Yellow Flanked Fairy Wrasse, Purplehead Parrot Wrasse, or the Bluehead Fairy Wrasse, displays a wide range of colors. Its coloration can vary from red and blue to deep maroon and deep blue, often with a pale underside. It is worth noting that the Blue Sided Wrasse and the Yellow Flanked Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lyukyuensis) have often been mistakenly identified as each other in the field of ichthyology. Hiroyuki Tanaka, a prominent expert on Cirrhilabrus species, suggests that these two fish are essentially the same and differ mainly in coloration based on their specific locations. Cirrhilabrus lyukyuensis typically possesses a distinct yellow to orange patch just behind its pectoral fins. It is important to anticipate color variations in these fish, as the intensity and patterns of their coloration may differ depending on their natural habitat, age, and mood.

The Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse is highly suitable for reef aquariums as it brings vibrant colors and liveliness to such environments. If introduced simultaneously, wrasses from the Cirrhilabrus genus generally coexist well together and constitute one of the finest fish groups for a reef tank setup.

To maintain optimal health, the diet of the Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse should consist of vitamin-enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods. Additionally, offering high-quality marine flake and marine pellet food is recommended.