Katherine Fairy Wrasse

The Katherine Fairy Wrasse is a rare and highly prized deepwater fairy wrasse endemic to the Philippines. Males display vibrant coloration featuring rich reds, purples, and yellows with iridescent scale highlights that make this species a standout among Cirrhilabrus. The combination of its limited geographic range, deepwater habitat, and stunning appearance has made it one of the most expensive and sought-after fairy wrasses in the hobby. Females are more subdued with pinkish-lavender tones.

In the wild, Cirrhilabrus katherinae is found exclusively in Philippine waters, where it inhabits deep reef slopes and rubble areas typically below 40 meters. Its restricted range and deepwater habitat make collection challenging and expensive, contributing to the high price tag these fish command in the trade. Like other fairy wrasses, males maintain harems and perform courtship displays, though deep observations of wild behavior are limited.

The Katherine Fairy Wrasse is an expert-level species due to the complexities of deepwater collection, decompression, and initial acclimation. Specimens must be carefully decompressed during collection and given a gentle introduction to captivity with subdued lighting and minimal stress. Once established, the species can prove reasonably hardy, accepting frozen foods and settling into aquarium life. A tight-fitting lid is mandatory, and the tank should provide moderate flow with ample live rock and open swimming space. This is a collector's species best suited for experienced aquarists.