Blue Side Fairy Wrasse

The Blue Side Fairy Wrasse, *Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura*, is a vibrant and active addition to the reef aquarium. This species is known for its striking coloration, with males displaying brilliant blue flanks that intensify during courtship displays. Females and juveniles are typically more subdued in color, often exhibiting shades of orange and pink.

A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for the Blue Side Fairy Wrasse to provide ample swimming space and accommodate its active nature. They are native to the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral reefs and rubble zones. In the aquarium, they appreciate a well-established environment with plenty of live rock for hiding and foraging. They are generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of other non-aggressive marine fish. However, it is best to keep only one male per tank unless the aquarium is very large and provides sufficient territory.

The Blue Side Fairy Wrasse is an intermediate-level fish to care for. They are carnivores and should be offered a varied diet of high-quality marine flake food, pellet food, frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and other meaty foods. Feeding multiple times a day is beneficial to maintain their health and vibrant colors. They are known to be jumpers, so a tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent escapes. They typically reach a maximum size of around 5 inches in captivity.