Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Naokoae Fairy Wrasse, also referred to as the Sharkfin Fairy Wrasse due to the unusual shape of the front of its dorsal fin that resembles a shark’s dorsal fin, is found exclusively in the Indian Ocean. We have much to still learn about the life history of this wrasse since it was just formally described in 2009 and does not make its way into the hobby very often. Males are brightly colored with red along the dorsal side, white along the ventral side and yellow in-between. The dorsal and anal fins will be jet black in color. Females of this species have yet to be characterized. The size of an adult Naokoae fairy wrasse has yet to be completely determined, but from data thus far we approximate about 4″.

Diet Requirements: Naokoae fairy wrasses are carnivores, actively hunting tiny crustaceans (e.g., copepods) throughout the day. A diet consisting of various meaty preparations such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, squid and other mixed frozen foods that contain algae, such as spirulina, will maintain optimal health and coloration. We highly encourage soaking frozen foods in vitamin and fatty acid supplements, as fairy wrasses have very high metabolisms. Multiple, small feedings per day rather than one large feeding can also help and in turn create more of a natural environment for a Naokoae fairy wrasse as it would feed in the wild. Naokoae fairy wrasses may also accept high quality flake or pellet foods, which is great for nutritional gaps and variety.

Care Requirements: An established, minimum 75 gallon aquarium is required for a Naokoae fairy wrasse. A tight fitting lid is a must because these wrasses are known to jump out of aquariums. Naokoae fairy wrasses enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to swim through and around while they hunt. Such live rock arrangements can also help to make it feel secure and encourage more outgoing behavior. Given that this wrasse is very much associated with reef habitats in the Indian Ocean, a Naokoae fairy wrasse would feel especially at home in a reef aquarium. While relatively hardy, the Naokoae fairy wrasse is not tolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. Given their somewhat peaceful demeanor, a Naokoae fairy wrasse can be easily bullied and therefore should not be kept with overly aggressive species. Naokoae fairy wrasses have been documented to be kept successfully with other Cirrhilabrus and Paracheilinus wrasses, but take into consideration the size of your aquarium and the temperaments of each wrasse to add them in order [or all at once] accordingly. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Medium: 2″ to 3”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.