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Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse

Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse

Origin

Indo-Pacific

Habitat Size

50-150 Liters

Water Type

Salt Water

Water Temperature

23º-26ºC

Cost in India

₹200 - ₹300

Size

4 - 5 inches (Small)

Diet

Omnivore

A pink Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse with an orange snout swims in an aquarium
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 11 Nov 2025

Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus rubeus) is a reef-safe marine fish adored for its vibrant ruby-red to orange body, bright blue mid-body stripe, and flowing fins. It is peaceful in nature and adds vibrancy & dynamic movement to community tanks & reef aquaria. The wrasse is also known as Social Wrasse and Blue and red fairy wrasse. It is native to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean regions

Longfin Fairy Wrasse Size

The size of the wrasse is ~3 inches (7.5 cm) in length. It can grow even bigger under good care and maintenance.

Lifespan of Longfin Fairy Wrasse

The wrasse lifespan is between 5-8 years when their ideal habitat is replicated in the tank.

Where can Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse be purchased?

This wrasse is available at specialty aquarium shops and online portals, costing ₹1,000–₹1,500.

Good Tank Mates-

  1. Peaceful, non-aggressive fish
  2. Clownfish
  3. Chromis
  4. Peaceful Wrasses (non-conflicting species)
  5. Gobies
  6. Small Tangs
  7. Basslets, small Angelfish (non-aggressive types)

Avoid Pairing with-

  1. Larger predatory fish
  2. Aggressive wrasse species or wrasses that are territorial
  3. Eels or nocturnal predators

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Longfin Fairy Wrasse Habitat

Initial Setup Cost

₹4,000 - ₹12,000

Water Temperature

23º -26ºC

Water Type

Salt Water

PH Level

8.1 - 8.4

Below habitat or living conditions of the red wrasse must be maintained to ensure a longer and happy life. The longfin fairy wrasse tank size also plays a crucial role in determining how happy the fish is.

Parameter

Recommended Range / Details

Longfin fairy wrasse tank size

- ~50 US gallons (~190 L) for a single specimen

- More space required if keeping a male & multiple females or additional similar species.

Water Temperature

72-78 °F (~22-26 °C)

pH

8.1 - 8.4

Substrate & Rockwork

- Plenty of live rock, caves, crevices.

- Rock structures both near bottom and in mid levels to provide hiding places.

- Secure lid required (wrasses are jumpers)

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse Dietary Needs

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹200 - ₹ 300

A healthy balance of meaty, prepared, and vegetable/ algae based food is the key to ensure the ruby fairy wrasse gets the right nutrition. Feed them 2-4 small feedings daily.

Food Type

Examples

Frozen/ Live Meaty Foods

Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, copepods, amphipods

Prepared Foods

High-quality marine pellets or flakes (fine size)

Vegetable/ Algae Based

Seaweed strips (nori), possibly small algae-rich frozen mixes

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Health

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Anchor worm

Pop eye (swollen eyes)

Fungus

Bacterial infections

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Undamaged fins

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

White growths

Swim bladder issues

The happiness of the fish is also determined on whether its health is in great condition or not. Here are some ways to take care of the ruby wrasse.

  1. The fish is an active swimmer and sets up camp between mid to upper water column.
  2. It can jump out of the aquarium when startled. So, ensure the lid is tightly fitted.
  3. Longfin fairy wrasse are reef safe. It will not harm corals.
  4. Keep the tank water clean to ensure no diseases affect the fish.

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum aquarium size?

The minimum size is around 50 gallons (~190 L) for a single fish.

What water parameters are ideal?

The best temperature is ~72-78°F (22-26°C) with pH 8.1-8.4

Can I keep more than one male?

It’s generally not recommended unless the tank is a very large aquarium and constant supervision can be maintained due to its territorial behaviour. One male with multiple females (harem) works best.

Is the Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse aggressive?

No, the Ruby Longfin Fairy Wrasse is generally peaceful and not considered aggressive. However, males may show territorial behavior toward other wrasses of similar size or coloration if kept in smaller tanks.