IntermediatePeacefulReef Safe

Labouti Fairy Wrasse

Cirrhilabrus laboutei

Family: Labridae · Fairy & Flasher Wrasses

Also known as: Laboute's Fairy Wrasse, Red-Fin Fairy Wrasse

Max Size

Min Tank

55 gal

Lifespan

5-8 years

Origin

Western Pacific, New Caledonia

Diet

Planktivore

Swims

Middle

About

The Labouti Fairy Wrasse is a rare and exceptionally beautiful species prized for the stunning pink-red coloration of mature males. Males display an intense magenta to cherry-red body with lavender accents and electric blue highlights along the fins and face, creating one of the most vivid color combinations found in any fairy wrasse. Females are more subtly colored with a pinkish body and yellow accents.

Named after the renowned underwater photographer Jack Laboute, this species hails primarily from New Caledonia and surrounding waters in the western Pacific. Its limited distribution and the restricted collection opportunities from these regions make it one of the more expensive and sought-after fairy wrasses in the hobby. When available, specimens command premium prices that reflect their rarity and beauty.

Despite its exotic origins, the Labouti Fairy Wrasse is moderately hardy once acclimated to aquarium life. It is completely reef-safe and peaceful, integrating well into community reef systems. Like all fairy wrasses, it requires a secure lid, moderate water flow, open swimming space, and frequent small feedings of planktonic foods. Males display actively throughout the day, making this an outstanding centerpiece fish for the dedicated reef aquarist.

Feeding & Diet

Planktivore

Labouti Fairy Wrasses are planktivores feeding on zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, offer frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, and small marine pellets. Multiple small feedings per day are essential for maintaining health and vivid coloration.

Compatibility

reef-safepeacefulcommunity-safedisplay-fishplanktivore

The Labouti Fairy Wrasse is peaceful and completely reef-safe. It coexists well with all community fish. Males may compete with other Cirrhilabrus species, so only one species should be kept per tank unless the aquarium is very large. Avoid aggressive tankmates that could stress this gentle fish.

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Breeding

Not bred in captivity

Labouti Fairy Wrasses are protogynous hermaphrodites. Males maintain small harems and perform vibrant courtship displays at dusk. Pelagic eggs are released into the water column. Captive breeding has not been achieved for this rare species.