Lineatus Fairy Wrasse... sel.  - 11/11/06
Hi Crew,
I come seeking clarification regarding the Lineatus Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lineatus). I've been hearing/reading mixed information, so I've come to the experts (are you buttered up yet?).
<Fully lubed>
My setup
Setup: 90 gallon FOWLR tank, sump with Excalibur protein skimmer, 80lbs LR
Stock:
Powder Blue (my fish store told me my tank size was plenty, but I'm saving for a future 300 gal for him)
Flame Angel, 3 Firefish, 4 Blue-green chromis, and 2 false Percula clownfish
My question,
I am interested in adding a Lineatus Fairy Wrasse as my last addition. I've read that a single female will eventually turn to a male if it is the only fish in the tank (reference: http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?pCatId=1765). However, my LFS owner stated the opposite, that a male may turn back to a female if isolated. Can you set me straight?
<Mmm, both can happen... though more likely that an "initial" phase labrid period will convert to a "terminal" (male) phase... in all cases, the "maleness" will not be as pronounced as in the case of members of both sexes or more than one individual being present. Hopefully that makes sense>
Also, I've read that coloration in the male is most brilliant with 'harems'.
<Oh, yes>
Would a harem be 3 or more?
<Now am thinking of Elvis singing in "Harem Scare". Thanks a lot. Oh, yes>
Or would 2 suffice?
<Two in a harem... What, do you live in Salt Lake?>
If so, I'm worried that a 90gal would not support any more than one to begin with. Is fading color a real issue and are there other ways to address it without adding females?
<Mmm, not really... all else being equal (just what does this mean anyway?), good water quality, nutrition, a dearth of agonistic tankmates... the presence of conspecifics brings out the most, best, "natural" behavior/s... Ooh, including sex changes, reversals...>
Sorry for all the questions, but I really appreciate your advice.
Thanks,
Ian
<Welcome. BobF>

Re: Lineatus Fairy Wrasse  11/12/06
Bob,
Thank you for the quick reply! Based on your response, my plan would be to house one male with two female Lineatus Fairy Wrasses (No I don't live in Salt Lake, although that setup sounds nice).
<Heeeee!>
Just be sure, do you feel a 90gal is sufficient in size for three of these fish?
Thanks again!
Ian
<Should be fine... large enough to inspire natural behavior... Bob Fenner>

Yellow Candy Hogfish or Scott's Fairy Wrasse (7-26-06)
Hi WWM crew sorry for all the questions.
<Hi there you have Leslie in for the crew this morning. No worries, that’s what we are here for.>
I have a Ocellaris Clownfish( Amphiprion ocellaris) and a Fridmani Pseudochromis( Pseudochromis fridmani) which do you think would be better with these fish … a Yellow Candy Hogfish or a Scott's Fairy Wrasse?
<I am not exactly which Hogfish you are referring to I am going to take a guess that it’s the Bodianus bimaculatus… Twinspot or Yellow Hogfish. Have a look here to be sure we are talking about the same fish http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/wrasses/bodianus/index.htm It’s the 4th fish listed. If they are not one in the same just be sure you have chosen a fish that is appropriately sized for your tank and tankmates. If they are on in the same I think either would be just fine, so go with whichever one suits your fancy. I personally really like the Scott’s Fairy Wrasse.>
Thanks for your fast reply and helping aquarists with their problems.
<Your most welcome, Leslie>

Re: Yellow Candy Hogfish or Scott's Fairy Wrasse, cont. (7-26-06)
Yep I was talking about the Bodianus bimaculatus <Good guess, I guess> thanks for your fast reply. <Your very welcome>
I think I will get the Scott's Fairy Wrasse- Australia.
<Great choice, I think you will be pleased.
Best of luck to you and your new fish, Leslie.>

Exquisite Wrasse  - 2/15/2006
Hello,
<Hi there>
I recently purchased an exquisite wrasse who now resides in my Quarantine Tank.  The wrasse is having a major problem swimming.  He lies on his back most of the time but breathes normal.  When I feed him, he scoots himself along to catch the food.  What type of condition could he have and what medicines are available to treat this.  All of my tank parameters are normal.  I don't want to lose him.  Any help would be appreciated.  Thanks.
<Having chased this species a number of times underwater I am surprised any arrive in live condition... this is one of the species I would do a pre-emptory dip/bath on and place in a large, established (hundreds of gallons, lots of live rock, reef) aquarium... and hope that it lives. Bob Fenner.

Solar Fairy Wrasse Trio 12/18/2005
Hello everyone.
<<Hello Brian - Ted here.>>
I have a question about Solar Fairy Wrasse. My current setup is 55g tank, HOB refugium, AquaC Pro skimmer, Tunze 6060, Mag 9.5 on a closed loop, and a few corals such as xenia, mushrooms, and a Kenya tree. I read on fishbase.org that male specimens of Solar Fairy Wrasse have a band of coloration on their gills. If this is correct I currently have one male in my 55g. I am considering adding 2 more of these fish to my tank. I have read that they school together, and I would love to see them perform courting displays. Is there any other way to determine the sex of Solar Wrasse? <<Yes. Cirrhilabrus sp. are sexually dichromatic with the males being the more colorful. Males are more often imported because of this.>> Would it be safe to add 2 more of these fish to the tank? <<You can keep several together but keep only one male.>> I am going for a peaceful reef tank, and aside from a Starry Blenny, Cleaner Shrimp, and random crabs these fish will be the main attraction. Several websites have stated that as long as the newly added fish are smaller than the current wrasse, they will change into/stay as females. Is this reliable information? <<If you add only females size will not be an issue. I would recommend being patient and adding only females. See this link (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/cirrhilabruspt2.htm) for pictures of a male and female).>> Do the females have different colorations from the males? <<Yes.>> All of the Solar Wrasse's I have seen have tremendous coloration, do males and females only differ in the band on their gills? <<No.>> Thank you for all your assistance.
Sincerely,
Brian
<<You're welcome and good luck - Ted>>

Pass on This Wrasse? (Wrasse Selection)  11/9/05
Hello, 
<Hello there! Scott F. with you today.>
I would like to know if you can recommend the fairy wrasse Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura, or Ruby Head Wrasse. How hardy is this particular species?
<The hardiness of this, or any Fairy Wrasse species is subject to a number of factors. The most important single factor, IMO, is the capture and handling techniques that the fish received along the chain of control from reef to LFS. It's generally a deeper water fish, which means that there is greater trauma associated with its capture. From that point, careful acclimation, quarantine and feeding will enhance the chances for success with this fish.>
I have a 40 gallon tank with two percula clowns, so I doubt
that there will be an aggression problem.
<In my personal opinion, this fish would do better in a larger system, which affords more swimming area and the possibility of places to retreat if threatened. Also, greater environmental stability is a big factor in keeping these fishes, and larger tanks afford greater stability, in general.>
How easy is this particular fish to feed?
<No more difficult, or no more simple than any other Cirrhilabrus species, IMO>
Is there an easier fairy wrasse that you would recommend?
<I like the "Hawaiian flame Wrasse" (C. jordani). It's an attractive, easy-to-feed fish, in my experience, and seems to adapt well to captive life. However, it does get fairly large, and I wouldn't recommend one for your tank. Personally, I'd pass on most Fairy Wrasses in this sized aquarium, and opt for one of the smaller Halichoeres species, or even a "Sixline Wrasse", Pseudocheilinus hexataenia. Better suited for a smaller system, IMO.>
I have received great help from you guys before, and I look forward from hearing you again.
Thanks very much,
Joe Marano
<Glad to be here for you, Joe. Good luck on your choices. Regards, Scott F.> 

Rare Marine Fishes/Suppliers 7/10/03 
Kevin here, Lately I've been on a quest to land a pair or small harem of C. rhomboidalis, with obviously little success. <hmmm.. they have been coming in regularly... just saw them fresh in Arizona and California> Do you have any clue as to which wholesalers may have the connections to get them? Aqua Marines out of LA claims that he gets them in monthly, which I doubt, <hmmm.. I would not doubt it... they are one of the best sources for rare fishes. The species has been making it in regularly at any rate> but we have since had a falling out w/ them and will no longer be doing business. <very sorry to hear it> Sergio at ERI was a hopeful prospect until his Marshall collector spilled the beans that the rhomboids he has been selling are actually a different Cirr. wrasse but look similar. <yes... I do believe I have seen both. Not that similar looking to me> He also said that true rhomboids are very difficult to get, as suspected, but there must be a Marshall collector out there who's getting them. Any thoughts, and have you ever seen a fairy wrasse that looks even remotely similar to a rhomboid? <they usually pass through the hands of the Hawaiian collectors. If you are in the industry (dealer), use your indices from Pet Business/Pet Age, PIJAC, etc to run down a list of Hawaiian collectors to appeal to> Kevin <best regards, Anthony>

Kevin S. here w/ a rhomboid Q
Hey Bob!
No need to have this hit the FAQ's.
Anthony said you might have some HI contacts for getting a pair or two of C. rhomboidalis? The usual LA wholesalers have yet to come up with anything for me. Any recommendations for a reputable supplier?
Kevin
<Do have a few friends who collect in Hawaii (wish you were coming out with us next week. Can you still make it, 24th to the 31st?). But... the only member of the genus recorded from there is C. jordani... "Western Central Pacific" is the stated distribution of this animal. Saw Anthony's response to you re... Have you checked (as in called) folks in LA... either Sea Dwelling Creatures or Quality Marine? Do identify yourself with WWM and myself if so. As Antoine stated, have seen this species in LA and Phoenix recently. Bob F>

Re: Kevin S. here w/ a rhomboid Q
<Ooo, too short notice to bail out to HI for a week, although I'd absolutely
LOVE to go. Sorry for the confusion, I didn't mean that C. rhomboid. was
from HI,
<... not necessarily... though Randy Fernley (Coral Fish Hawai'i) does transship (mostly Centropyge loricula) through O'ahu>
but since they're from the Marshalls, Anthony said that they'd hit
HI soon after collection. We don't have an account with Quality, but we do
with SDC. Will call tomorrow. Thanks, Kevin>
<I would do so. Ask for Carl at SDC, Robert at QM. If you would like, make it known if/when you can be there (on 104th) and I'll meet you during a "book delivery day" and smooth the transaction. Bob Fenner>

Re: the rhomboid saga continues...
Kevin here again... Thanks for hooking me up with Carl, he's probably the most hobbyist-like rep I've ever spoken with.
<Yes, a fine young fellow (at Sea Dwelling Creatures)>
Unfortunately we've been dealing with Gersh for years, and apparently he was hurt that I was asking Carl stuff instead of him.
<Mmm, unusual>
Oh well. Anyways, Carl flat out told me that I was "pipe dreaming", then later Gersh called back and proclaimed that he can get me a pair in 2 weeks.
<Ha! Perhaps some friendly competition at work here>
I'm going to cross my fingers on it, even though he wants four bills for the pair (everyone else had said 75 each, yet no one could come up with them...). I hope this works out! Lata
Kevin
<I've gots to get back into the collection end! Good luck. Bob Fenner>

Fairy Wrasses
Hi Wrasse Experts,
I have a 120-gal reef tank with lots of live rock and a nice sand bed.  The live rock has lots of caves and hiding places.  The tank is completely enclosed.  Presently I have a 3.5" Siganus vulpinus, a 2" Pseudochromis fridmani, and a pair of Cirrhilabrus scottorum (5" & 4").  All get along great together, no problems whatsoever.
<Sounds like it would be a nice peaceful tank.  Perfect to lower the blood pressure with!>
Here comes the question:  What will happen if I add a second pair of Cirrhilabrus wrasses of a different species?
<Most wrasses from the Cirrhilabrus family tend to be group dwelling fish. They live in harems consisting of a secondary male and numerous females.  So, if you were to add more Scott's Fair wrasses, then most likely there wouldn't be that much of an issue, provided that the new additions are larger than the current ones.  It might lead to a few disputes at first if the new guy is bigger than the current male.  Mixing different species of wrasse can be a bit hazardous but these wrasses are known for their peaceful nature.  Not to mention having large amount of rockwork helps in the equation.>
I was thinking of maybe C. lineatus?
<very beautiful fish! Though not seen as frequently in the aquarium hobby as the Scott's Fairy Wrasse, the Lineatus is hardier in my opinion.>
Will the two males duke it out or will they ignore each other since they are not the same species?
<most people I know say that they would ignore each other, but you are taking a risk with it.>
If that won't work, could I add another female C. scottorum to give me two females and one supermale?
<Since these wrasses are found in harems, I would go for an additional Scott's.  You can get to see the male doing his "I have my harem" deal.  They tend to act a bit different when there is 2 or more females to one male.>
Or how about adding a pair of Paracheilinus octotaenia instead? Or should I just wait until I get my 375-gal tank before I mix wrasses?
<if you could wait until you have a 375 gallon tank going then it would easier allow you to add multiple species of wrasses. Be sure to check out some of our WetWebMedia FAQs and info sites dealing with Wrasses.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/wrascompfaqs.htm
Hope that helps.  -Magnus>
Thanks, George

Australian Lineatus Wrasse 3/13/04
Hi All!  Well my flame scallops are doing well. heresy)  I know I'm a blind squirrel. lol  Thanks for the id on the Chisel-tooth wrasse.  Blasted LFS didn't have an id and I couldn't find an id, do you know anyone who'll want it once it gets 12" long? arghh.  I hope it grows slowly. ;]  Maybe by that time we'll have a 400g and a bigger house. lol  They have a Creole wrasse now that just looks beautiful, but its only 2 1/2" long. sigh.
<Congrats on your success with the flame scallops.  Please do realize that success with such animals should be measured in years, not months!  Many inappropriate fish make it into the hobby.  I know a very famous aquarist who has a napoleon wrasse in his reef tank!  These grow to several feet in length!>
I'd like some advice since you guys are such wonderful advice givers...   One of these days I would like to buy what I consider to be the holy grail of wrasses (one of them at least, I adore wrasses!) an Australian Lineatus Wrasse.  But not until we are well established in the 180 which we will be buying sooner than later (I hope!).
<Good plan to hold off until you have a system that will be stable.>
Would you consider this to be a hard to keep fish?  Also, what are the space requirements on a fish like this?  Would I be able to keep a small one in a 33g propagation tank or should I wait for the 180?
<My limited experience is that these fishes (fairy and flasher wrasses in general) are fairly hardy, but not quite so hardy as other wrasses.  I would not suggest keeping it in a 33gal tank.  Why subject an animal that you obviously hold in such high regard to less than ideal conditions?  These fish are moderately susceptible to parasites and as somewhat timid planktivores they often demand live foods (at least for a time).  Aggressive feeders can easily outcompete them for food, especially in the first few days/weeks after introduction.>
Would it be okay to mail order this fish or would it be better to try and order it through a wholesaler (we know several)?
<I always advise against purchasing these fish mail order.  If you ask your LFS to order it for you, the will often order more than one, allowing you not only to observe it's health, but to choose.  It is a whole other topic, but there are also a multitude of reasons to support your local stores.>
Will a 180 be big enough, I currently have a Japanese wrasse and a super friendly exquisite wrasse in my 58g and my husband has a yellow Coris (why do they call this Coris, its sci. name is diff?) and the chisel tooth in the 75g.
<Please do consider the typical temperaments of these fish, as well as your observations and consider if you really want to risk them with your "centerpiece" fish.>
Thanks and I hope you have a wonderful day! Your ever-loving fan, Morgan  Bob Fenner ha nihongo wo hanasu?  <Thanks for the kind words!  Best Regards, Adam><<Hi, wakarimas scoshe. From living in Japan as a youth. RMF>>

In Search Of The Perfect Wrasse...
Hello Crew,
<Hello! Scott F. here today>
Thought I pop in another question for my mentors.  I've been wanting to purchase a Rhomboid Wrasse for some time now.
<Awesome fish!>
However, I've seen pairs at the LFS but never of acceptable quality by my standards. I figured if I'm going to spend that kind of money, it should be in perfect condition.
<I agree with you 100%!>
Are Rhomboids really bad shippers?  The ones I've seen were
always pale, inactive, breathing heavy, white blotches on skin, and with a few nips here and there.  They told me that is how they always come.
<Well, these fish tend to suffer during the collection and shipping process. They are usually found in deeper water, and the initial collection often leads to trauma. Then, like other fishes, they have to endure a number of days without food, in poor water, while being shipped to the wholesaler, dealer, and then to you. Little wonder that they look to be in poor shape! My advice to you is to either place a deposit on some at the LFS, and see if they will hold them for a few days (to give them a chance to recover a it), or to pay the extra $$ and get them from a online source like Marine Center or LiveAquaria.com.>
And when I try to wait out on them, they're always sold before I can get another look.  Well, the LFS has another Rhomboid in, but no pair, just one male.  Would the male lose color w/o the better half?
<Quite possibly. With other species of wrasses to "flash" at, he might retain some color, though>
And would it be wise to add just any non-pair female if they come along later on?
<Ideally, you'd want one male to two or three females. These fish are "haremic" in nature, and display nicely when kept this way in the aquarium>
Another thing is, if they are still in bad condition as before, which I expect, do you think I should take a risk in buying it based on the aforementioned conditions?
<I'd see if they improve a bit in the dealer's tank, first, before taking them home. See if he/she accepts a deposit>
I've waited and waited. Just don't know how long I would
have to keep on waiting.  The LFS says they probably won't be getting any of them soon after this one.
<Trust me on this- I'm a huge wrasse fan. I've missed a bunch of rare fishes over the years 'cause I hesitated for various reasons (like the ones you describe), but they always seem to be available again down the line. Maybe not tomorrow, or even next month. But eventually...It took me almost a year and a half to find a "Peppermint" Hog Fish (B. masudai), but I eventually found a great specimen. The same is true for many fairy and flasher wrasses. There will be others out there. Unless the specimen is an absolute one-of-a-kind,  I would wait for a good-quality one.>
Tks for your advice always.
Roy
<My pleasure, Roy! Don't give up the search. It's part of the fun! Regards, Scott F>

Fairy/Flasher Wrasse questions
Thanks for your help in the past. Hope you might have some more insights. I have a 180 fish and live rock tank. Mostly mellow fish right now, except for a hyper Kole tang and flame angel.
<And these are relatively easygoing...>
I am considering an attempt at putting together a harem of fairy or flasher wrasses. Ultimately, it would be with the plan to try to get them to breed. No one seems to carry the females.
<Not as easily sold... due to color, finnage differences... everyone wants the males it seems>
Do you know if this has been done and whether it worked? Thanks.
<Yes, many times, many places... Have seen these groupings mainly in public aquariums due to size of tank requirements... but can be done. Bob Fenner>

Fairy wrasse
Hi Bob, it's me again. I just recently emailed you about that HUFA and fish aggression question. Anyways, I finally found a store, which is willing to make a trade for my red lip blenny. Of course I'll probably have to pay some too. I looking for info on the Cirrhilabrus rubriventralis fairy wrasse. The FAQs don't have any questions about them. I'm asking because they are the only affordable fairy wrasses, and they are just as pretty as most others. How do they do as lone males? 
<Fine, but won't be, stay as colorful as if female/s were about... Bob Fenner.>
Do they need the females with them to do well? Thanks for your help.

Flame Wrasse
Hello Mr. Fenner,
<Hi there>
How are you? Hope all is well. I hope you can answer a few questions I have
regarding my recently purchased male Flame Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus jordani). 
<One of my favorite species of a very favored genus: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/cirrhilabrus.htm
my coverage and the FAQs beyond... where your message will be archived.>
He resides in my 90 gal. reef aquarium. The Flame Wrasse is eating well, and
getting along great with the other inhabitants (Purple and Yellow Tang). I
was wondering if it is necessary/beneficial to have a harem for him ¦in terms
of psychological and/or physiological? 
<Mmm, no. If anything, in a tank of this size, you might try a single female>
Will the intense coloration remain
the same or fade without the company of females? 
<Would be better with a female present>
I am inclined to add
two/three females for him€¦what is a reasonable number, given the space
availability.
<Exactly... the space is too small for any but one other (female) individual. More females here would too likely lead to more troubles than having none. Bob Fenner>
Regards,
Dan