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Curated by the Fast Aquatics editorial team. Updated May 2026. Reviewed against vendor + breeder records, IUCN listings, and references from SeriouslyFish, FishBase, and the Coral Reef Information Network. Husbandry guidance is field-tested by Fast Aquatics vendor-side aquarists and cross-referenced with peer publications.
Scientific name
Cirrhilabrus rubrimarginatus
Family
Wrasse (Labridae) - Fairy wrasse
Adult size
4"
Min tank size
70 gallons
Temperature
74-82°F
Salinity
1.024-1.026
Temperament
Peaceful
Difficulty
Beginner
Lifespan
6-8 years

About the Pink-Margined Fairy Wrasse

Pink-margined fairy wrasse displays distinct pink/red margins along dorsal and anal fins against a yellow/orange body. Mid-size fairy wrasse with good color stability and reliable feeding response. Suitable for keepers stepping up from beginner fairy wrasses.

Native range: Western Pacific. Wrasses (family Labridae) are one of the most diverse and successful fish families on coral reefs — approximately 600 described species worldwide, of which 40-60 are commonly available in the marine aquarium trade. The Pink-Margined Fairy Wrasse is part of the Wrasse (Labridae) - Fairy wrasse grouping, characterized by elongated body shape, terminal-phase sex change (most species), and active reef-grazing or pest-control behavior.

Tank requirements and aquascape

Tank size: 70 gallons. Sand substrate is non-negotiable for sand-sleeping wrasse genera (Halichoeres, Macropharyngodon, Anampses) — 2-3 inches of fine pool-filter sand minimum. Rockwork should provide multiple cave entrances and tight crevices the fish can wedge into for sleeping or escape. Lid: tight-fitting, gap-free. Wrasses are the second-most-common jumping casualties in reef tanks after gobies — a single 1cm gap is enough.

Flow: moderate to moderately strong is preferred by most wrasses — they evolved on current-swept reefs. Lighting: standard reef LED works for all wrasses; the fish itself does not require special spectrum.

Diet and feeding

Carnivore — mysis, copepods, pellets. Most wrasses have very high metabolic rates and need 2-3 feedings daily. Skipping feedings during business travel or vacations leads to rapid condition loss — schedule automatic feeders or vendor-trusted tank-sitters for extended absences.

Compatible tank mates

Safe: Reef-safe community.

Avoid: Other Cirrhilabrus males.

Breeding

Not captive bred. Most wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites — born female, transition to male as they reach social dominance in a group. Tank breeding of wrasses is rare due to the complex behaviors and pelagic egg-laying that resists captive replication.

Common problems and solutions

Jumping; conspecific aggression.

Keeper note: Standard fairy wrasse care. Single male per tank.

Frequently asked questions

How is the pink-margined fairy wrasse different from other Cirrhilabrus?

Distinctive pink/red margins on dorsal and anal fins. Mid-size at 4 inches.

Are pink-margined fairy wrasses hardy?

Yes — among the more reliable Cirrhilabrus species for beginning fairy wrasse keepers.

How much do pink-margined fairy wrasses cost?

$80-200 depending on size and color.

Can I keep pink-margined with other fairy wrasses?

Yes if different species — one male each. Multiple males of any one species causes aggression.

Related wrasses

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