Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse (Female)

Also known as Hooded Wrasse, Pylei Wrasse

The female Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse displays subtle beauty with peachy-orange tones and gentle temperament. This peaceful planktivore is an excellent addition to reef aquariums and can be kept with males in harem arrangements.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus
• Common Names: Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse, Pylei Wrasse, Deep Velvet Fairy 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: 55 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide live rock with caves and crevices for security. Appreciates well-established aquariums with stable conditions. Open swimming areas in mid-water are important. 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
  • Moderate water flow

Diet & Feeding

Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flakes
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: May be shy feeders initially; target feeding recommended

Notes & Considerations

• Females display subtle peachy-orange coloration with less intensity than males.
• Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Can be kept in harems with one male and multiple females.
• Secure aquarium lid essential; known jumpers.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates.
• Collected from deeper waters; appreciate lower lighting initially.
• It may take time to adjust and show the best coloration.
• Less commonly available than some fairy wrasses.

Why Choose a Quarantined Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse (Female)?

Quarantined specimens are carefully acclimated from deeper water collection depths, treated preventatively, and conditioned to accept prepared foods. This extended observation period ensures health and reduces stress for this beautiful species.