Red Wrass

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus rubriventralis
• Common Name: Red Wrasse (also called Social Wrasse or Redfin Fairy Wrasse)
• Adult Size: Up to 3.5 inches (9 cm)
• Life Expectancy: Around 5–7 years in captivity
• Habitat:
  • Western Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea and East Africa
  • Coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons
  • Usually found in groups, at depths of 3–20 meters

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons (190 liters) for a single; larger if keeping in groups
• Ideal Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
• Temperament:
  • Peaceful and reef-safe
  • Best kept in groups with one male and multiple females
  • May be shy but active when established

• Does well with other peaceful community fish

Diet

Omnivorous
Diet should include:

• Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp
• Finely chopped seafood
• High-quality marine flakes or pellets
• Occasional marine algae or spirulina-based food

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily

Appearance

Distinctive Features:

• Males display vivid red to reddish-orange coloration with bright red pelvic fins
• Females and juveniles are more subdued in color — typically pinkish or orange
• Slender, streamlined bodyKnown for flashing displays during social or mating behavior
• Colors become more intense in dominant males or during courtship