Cirrhilabrus johnsonii

Datasheet

General Description

The Johnson's Fairy Wrasse, Cirrhilabrus johnsoni, is a stunning wrasse species known for its vibrant coloration, with adult males displaying hues of orange, pink, and electric blue. Native to the Marshall Islands at the Kwajalein Atoll, this wrasse matures to about 3 inches in length and is a prized addition to marine aquariums.

Aquarium Suitability

With its peaceful temperament and reef compatibility, the Johnson's Fairy Wrasse is suitable for marine aquariums. However, it is essential to house them with other peaceful tankmates and ensure a securely covered tank due to their jumping behavior. A minimum tank size of 50 gallons, aquascaped with ample live rock and open swimming spaces, is recommended.

Care and Hardiness

This wrasse species is considered easy to care for, making it ideal for aquarists of various experience levels. Maintaining stable water conditions within the parameters of pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and alkalinity of 8-12 dKH is crucial for their well-being.

Reef Suitability

The Johnson's Fairy Wrasse is reef-safe and can coexist with corals and other invertebrates in a reef aquarium setting. Their natural habitat among rubble patches with algae and rocky structures makes them well-suited for reef environments.

Aquarium Setup

Creating an ideal environment for the Johnson's Fairy Wrasse involves setting up a marine aquarium with a minimum capacity of 50 gallons. The tank should be aquascaped with live rock, providing hiding spots and open spaces for swimming. Maintaining a diverse ecosystem with live rock and suitable algae will mimic their natural habitat.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful demeanor, Johnson's Fairy Wrasses are generally amiable towards tankmates. They should be housed with non-aggressive species to prevent any territorial conflicts. Additionally, these wrasses are active swimmers and can display playful behaviors in a well-suited environment.

Feeding and Diet

Being carnivorous, the diet of the Johnson's Fairy Wrasse should include a variety of foods such as vitamin-enriched frozen/thawed mysis and brine shrimp, along with marine flake and pellet foods. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for their health and vibrancy.

Dimorphism

Male Johnson's Fairy Wrasses exhibit vibrant colors, including orange, pink, and blue, while females are more subdued in appearance with transparent fins. Captive reproduction of this species in home aquariums is not commonly documented due to their limited distribution and breeding challenges.

Habitat and Distribution

Found exclusively in the Marshall Islands at the Kwajalein Atoll, the Johnson's Fairy Wrasse inhabits moderate depths ranging from 60 to 90 feet. They prefer environments with mixed algae, soft corals, and rocky structures with coralline algae, creating a diverse habitat within the reef ecosystem.