Darwin's Glow Fairy Wrasse

Darwin's Glow Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus darwini) Care Level: Intermediate Temperament: Peaceful Colour Form: Orange, Pink, Blue, Yellow Diet: Carnivore Reef Compatible: Yes Water Conditions: 23-27°C, dKH 6-12, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025 Max Size: 10 cm Family: Labridae Minimum Tank Size: 200 litres Overview The Darwin's Glow Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus darwini), also known simply as the Glow Wrasse, is a visually captivating fish with a vibrant mix of orange, pink, and blue hues, particularly striking in males. Originating from coral reefs around northern Australia, this fairy wrasse thrives in a peaceful community or reef setting. Its stunning coloration and active personality make it a favourite among aquarists. Behaviour and Habitat This wrasse is peaceful and sociable, especially in larger tanks with ample swimming space and rock formations for exploration and retreat. Males may display brighter colours to establish territory or attract females, adding a dynamic visual experience to the aquarium. Although primarily peaceful, Darwin’s Glow Fairy Wrasse can show mild territorial behaviour toward similar species, so a single male per tank is recommended unless it’s a very large aquarium. Tank Requirements Darwin’s Glow Fairy Wrasse requires a tank of at least 200 litres to accommodate its active swimming habits. The aquarium should feature ample rockwork and hiding spots for rest and refuge, as well as an open swimming area. Like many wrasses, they may jump when startled, so a tightly fitting lid is essential. Diet As a carnivore, the Darwin’s Glow Fairy Wrasse enjoys a diet that includes frozen mysis and brine shrimp, as well as finely chopped seafood and high-quality carnivore pellets. It benefits from a varied diet to enhance its colour and overall health, and feeding multiple times per day helps support its high energy levels. Care Tips Ensure stable water parameters to support its active nature and vibrant colour. A secure lid is essential to prevent jumping. Feed a variety of protein-rich foods to maintain coloration and health. Gradual acclimation to tank mates helps ease stress and ensures compatibility. Compatibility This wrasse is compatible with other peaceful, non-aggressive tank mates such as tangs, clownfish, and other peaceful wrasses. They can coexist well in reef setups as they are reef-safe and will not disturb corals or invertebrates. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive fish, as they may become stressed. Final Thoughts The Darwin's Glow Fairy Wrasse brings a unique combination of colour and activity to the aquarium, making it a fantastic choice for reef enthusiasts looking for a vibrant, peaceful fish. Though it requires stable conditions and a secure setup, this wrasse is relatively hardy and adds a lively dynamic to the tank. Its bright colours and active behaviour make it a stunning addition to any established marine setup.