Katherine’s Fairy Wrasse

Also known as Katherine’s Fairy Wrasse

Katherine’s Wrasse is a stunning and relatively rare species displaying vibrant red-orange coloration with blue markings. This peaceful planktivore is a prized addition to reef aquariums for experienced aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus katherinae
• Common Names: Katherine’s Fairy Wrasse, Katherine’s Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide extensive live rock with caves and overhangs for security. These active wrasses need ample open swimming space. Well-established tanks with stable conditions are preferred. Secure lid required as they can jump.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Excellent water quality essential
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate to strong water flow

Diet & Feeding

Katherine’s Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores requiring varied nutrition:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flakes
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (beneficial during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: May be finicky initially; patience and varied diet recommended

Notes & Considerations

• Males display a brilliant red-orange body with blue facial markings and fin accents.
• Completely reef safe; safe with all corals and invertebrates.
• Active swimmers that add spectacular color to the aquarium.
• Secure aquarium lid essential; known jumpers when startled.
• Can be kept with other peaceful wrasses and reef fish.
• Males may display territorial behavior toward other male fairy wrasses.
• Shows best coloration in well-established tanks with quality lighting.
• Relatively rare in the aquarium trade; higher price point.
• May be shy initially; requires a peaceful environment to thrive.

Why Choose a Quarantined Katherine’s Fairy Wrasse?

Quarantined Katherine’s Wrasses have been carefully observed, treated preventatively, and conditioned to accept a variety of prepared foods. Given this species’ rarity and initial shyness, our quarantine process ensures you receive a healthy, well-acclimated specimen ready to thrive in your reef aquarium.