Orange Stripe Wrasse

Orange Stripe Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus earlei)

The Orange Striped Wrasse, the Earlei Fairy Wrasse is a stunning addition to any marine tank. With their vibrant pink and orange bodies adorned with deep purple stripes and an endearing purple chin strap marking, they are visually captivating. Their translucent fins feature beautiful deep purple rays, adding to their charm. Originating from Palau and Micronesia in the Western Central Pacific Ocean, these lovely fish thrive in complex habitats that help them evade predators. Unlike some wrasse species, they do not bury themselves to hide or sleep. Instead, they employ a clever strategy: they find a preferred nook and envelop themselves in a protective mucus coat. This mucus not only provides safety while they sleep but also masks their scent from potential predators, without compromising water quality like some coral wax jackets might. In the wild, Earlei Fairy Wrasses live in groups consisting of one male and several females. The dominant male performs elaborate courtship displays to instigate spawning, showcasing his vibrant colors to attract his harem. Notably, these fish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning that breeding females can transform into males as they mature, so all juveniles are initially immature females.