Description:

The Red/Flame Wrasse refers to the Flame Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus jordani). This is one of the most popular and iconic species within the “fairy wrasse” group, known for its dazzling coloration and peaceful demeanor. It’s a fantastic choice for many reef aquariums.

Here’s a comprehensive care guide for the Flame Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus jordani):

Appearance:

• Males: Exhibit a brilliant, fiery red to orange-red body that can intensify with mood or during display. They often have a bright yellow or gold strip along the dorsal fin, and sometimes a blue or purple margin on the fins. Their caudal fin is usually dark red or purplish.
• Females: Are generally less intensely colored, typically a pinkish-red to orange with less vibrant fin coloration.

Adult Size:

• Flame Wrasses typically reach an adult size of 4 to 5 inches (10-12.5 cm) in captivity. Males tend to be slightly larger than females.

Natural Habitat and Distribution:

• Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and some surrounding areas like Johnston Atoll and Midway Atoll.
• Found in groups on coral reefs, typically at depths ranging from 5 to over 100 meters, though most commonly above 30 meters. They prefer fore-reef slopes, walls, and rubble zones.

Aquarium Care (Moderate Level):

• Minimum Tank Size: A 50-gallon (approximately 190 liters) aquarium is considered the minimum for a single Flame Wrasse. However, a 75-gallon or larger tank is highly recommended, especially if you plan to keep multiple wrasses or a pair, or if the tank is very active.
• Water Parameters: Maintain stable reef tank conditions. They are generally hardy once acclimated but benefit from consistency.
  • Temperature: 74-80F (23-27C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025 specific gravity
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12 dKH
  • Ammonia and nitrites should be 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.
• Filtration: A robust filtration system, including a good protein skimmer, is beneficial to maintain water quality.
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong water flow is preferred. They are active swimmers and appreciate good circulation.
• Diet:
  • Carnivorous: Flame Wrasses are micro-predators, feeding on small zooplankton and benthic invertebrates in the wild.
  • In captivity, they are generally good eaters and readily accept a variety of meaty frozen foods:
    • Vitamin-enriched mysis shrimp (a staple)
    • Brine shrimp (less nutritious, but good for variety)
    • Copepods and amphipods (live or frozen)
    • Finely chopped quality seafood (e.g., clam, squid)
    • High-quality marine flake and pellet foods can be offered, but primarily rely on meaty frozen options.
  • Feed 2-3 times daily in small amounts to support their active metabolism.
• Temperament:
  • Peaceful and Active: Flame Wrasses are known for their active swimming behavior, constantly darting around the tank, and their generally peaceful nature towards most other fish.
  • Can be kept in groups: They are one of the few fairy wrasses that can often be kept in small groups, provided a single male is present with multiple females. If introducing multiple wrasses, add them simultaneously, or females first, then the male. Avoid multiple males unless the tank is exceptionally large.
  • They typically get along well with other peaceful to semi-aggressive reef inhabitants.
• Reef Compatibility: Excellent reef compatibility. Flame Wrasses are considered truly reef safe. They will not harm corals, clams, or most desirable invertebrates (they might opportunistically pick at very small, pest micro-invertebrates). They are a great choice for mixed reef aquariums.
• Tank Setup:
  • Provide plenty of live rock with caves and crevices for hiding and exploration. They will dart in and out of the rockwork.
  • Ensure ample open swimming space in the water column.
  • A tight-fitting lid is absolutely essential as Flame Wrasses are notorious jumpers, especially when startled or new to the tank. Any small opening can be an escape route.
  • They do not bury in the sand at night, unlike some other wrasse families (e.g., Halichoeres or Macropharyngodon).
• Acclimation: Slow and careful drip acclimation is crucial due to their sensitivity to parameter changes.