Orange Back Fairy Wrasse - Medium

These fish have a vivid orange back with a magenta coloured striped that goes along its body all the way to the tail. Their colouring can change depending on what mood they are in and even when performing a mating ritual. The males will develop a dark red crown as they get older.

There have been no known cases of breeding this fish in captivity. Also, there have been no known sightings of juvenile males so it is thought they all start as females of which some will later transform into the males of the species.

You'll enjoy watching these little guys cruising around the aquarium normally high up and quite rapidly. The intense flashes of colouring will keep you entertained for hours. These Wrasse display the telltale "fairy-like" hovering from which they get their name.

These fish sleep in a mucous cocoon that helps guard against predators by disguising their scent. So don't worry if you see them covered in a slime-like substance at night.

There is still quite a lot to learn about this fish species as most of them have not been found in the open ocean. They do behave similarly to other fairy wrasses in tanks and are a pleasure to keep.

Orange back fairy wrasse are found from depths of 10-25 metres around coral reefs in Sulawesi waters, Indonesia. Often found in small groups along the edge of the reef.

Tank Recommendations for Orange Back Fairy Wrasse

The smallest tank size for the orange back fairy wrasse is 340 litres. These extremely active fish need plenty of space to swim around but make sure to include relevant hiding places where they can rest and sleep.

The orange back fairy wrasse is well known for escaping the tank. As they are such fast, energetic fish they can literally swim themselves out of the tank. A tightly fitted aquarium cover is a must with this species of fish.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Care should be taken with other species of similar-looking Wrasse. It's a great idea to pair one male with several females as they love to live in a happy harem. Larger more aggressive fish should be kept with these docile and shy creatures.

Usually Compatible

Boxfish, Angelfish and Tangs are a great option to house with the Orange Back Fairy Wrasse. They have been known to get along well with Damselfish too. Two or more females of the same species are the preferred choice of tank buddies.

Sometime Compatible

Caution must be taken when keeping Clownfish, Blennies, Dwarf Angelfish and Frogfish in the same tank. Parrotfish, Dragonettes, Goatfish and Gobies can also show signs of aggression to these smaller species of Wrasses. Snappers, Triggerfish and Groupers could also be a possibility but again, take care. It is occasionally possible to keep with other species of wrasse as long as they aren't too similar looking.

Rarely Compatible

Shy, slow-moving fish such as Pipefish and Seahorses may be left to starve when kept together so avoid those. Other male Orange Back Fairy Wrasse will fight each other endlessly. Sharks will most definitely eat them.

Feeding your Orange Back Fairy Wrasse

These fish are carnivorous and will thrive on a varied diet of vitamin-enriched foods and high-quality marine flake and pellets. They love meaty food such as mysis or brine shrimp. Feed them smaller amounts 3-4 times a day and ensure lots of variety which will help keeps their colouring nice and vibrant.