Care
The Koi Fairy Wrasse - sometimes also known as the Red Headed Fairy Wrasse - is found over coral and rubble habitats in coastal and outer reef lagoons. This is a highly variable species, and the males can undergo dramatic colour changes in seconds, most apparent during courtship rituals. Koi Fairy Wrasses are usually found in moderately large mixed sex groups feeding on zooplankton in the water column. However, in the confines of the home aquarium it is best to keep either a single specimen or a group consisting of just one male with several females. Be sure to add the entire group simultaneously, or else add all females before the male. Large males will behave aggressively towards other fairy wrasses and other small wrasse species introduced after them, and unless you are blessed with a system of vast proportions, do not attempt to keep more than one male together. With regards to aquascaping, it is important to provide these fish with plenty of live rock to hide amongst should they feel threatened. Newly acclimatised fish may be quite shy, but in the presence of peaceful tankmates, they should soon gain much confidence and swim out in open water areas. It is best not to house Koi Fairy Wrasses with large, intimidating species such as some of the bigger Angels and Tangs. Likewise, do not keep alongside small timid planktivores such as dottybacks, as the Koi Fairy Wrasse can be very boisterous and competitive at feeding times. Provide your fish with consistently high water quality, decent current, and plenty of aeration. Tight fitting coverslides are an absolute must.
Feeding
Feed a variety of meaty foods in small amounts several times per day, including Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped krill, and plankton. In time, may take flake food.
Breeding
Unknown
