Lubbock's Wrasse

About

Lubbock's wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lubbocki) is a small fairy wrasse native to the outer reef systems of the Philippines and the Celebes Sea around Indonesia, where it congregates in moderately large groups over coral rubble and finely branched coral heads at depths of roughly 20 to 25 meters. Males display vivid coloration that intensifies during courtship and dominance displays, while females tend to be more subdued. A pattern typical across the fairy wrasse genus. In the wild, this species is a midwater zooplankton feeder, constantly picking tiny prey from the current, and that behavior carries over neatly into aquarium life where it will readily accept small frozen and prepared meaty foods. Like most fairy wrasses, Lubbock's is a peaceful and active swimmer that coexists well with other reef inhabitants, though males can be territorial with conspecifics or closely related species. Keeping more than one male is best avoided unless you have a genuinely large system. It's generally considered a manageable species for intermediate-level reef keepers. Hardy enough once settled in, but it does appreciate a well-established tank with stable water quality and plenty of open swimming space near the rockwork. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as fairy wrasses are notorious jumpers.