Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse

Also known as Orangeback Wrasse

The Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse is a striking species displaying vibrant orange dorsal coloration contrasting with blue-green lower body. This peaceful and hardy planktivore is an excellent choice for reef aquariums and brings spectacular color to the mid-water column.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis
• Common Names: Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse, Orangeback 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: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample live rock with caves and open swimming areas for displaying. These active wrasses appreciate well-established tanks with stable conditions. A secure, tight-fitting lid is mandatory as these fish can jump.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Stable water quality preferred
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Good filtration system
  • Moderate water flow

Diet & Feeding

Orange-Back Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, marine cuisine
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (beneficial during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily; feed in water column

Notes & Considerations

• Males display a vibrant orange back and dorsal region contrasting with blue-green lower body and face.
• Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Only one male per tank unless the system is large (100+ gallons).
• Can be kept with females in harem arrangements.
• Excellent jumpers; ensure the aquarium has a secure lid with no gaps.
• Hardy species suitable for aquarists with basic marine experience.
• Active swimmer throughout the day.
• Generally disease-resistant when properly maintained.
• Shows best coloration under quality reef lighting in established systems.
• Generally peaceful; can coexist with other peaceful wrasse species.
• One of the more readily available and affordable fairy wrasses.

Why Choose a Quarantined Orange-Back Fairy Wrasse?

Our quarantined specimens are carefully observed, treated preventatively, and trained to accept a variety of prepared foods. This conditioning period ensures you receive a healthy, vibrantly colored fish ready to thrive and display its striking orange-and-blue coloration in your reef aquarium.