Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse (Male)

Also known as Hooded Wrasse, Pylei Wrasse

The male Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse is a spectacular showpiece displaying brilliant red-orange coloration with distinctive blue “hood” markings on the head. This stunning planktivore is a prized addition to reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus bathyphilus
• Common Names: Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse, Pylei Wrasse, Deep Velvet Fairy Wrasse
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and reef safe
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide extensive live rock with caves and overhangs for security. Males need ample open swimming space for displaying and patrolling. Well-established tanks with stable conditions are essential. Secure lid mandatory.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Pristine water quality essential
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • High-quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water flow

Diet & Feeding

Male Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores requiring varied nutrition:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, enriched frozen preparations
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (beneficial during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: May be initially finicky; patience and varied diet essential

Notes & Considerations

• Males display a spectacular red-orange body with distinctive blue “hood” on head.
• One of the most sought-after and expensive fairy wrasses.
• Completely reef safe; safe with all corals and invertebrates.
• Only one male per tank; can be kept with females in larger systems.
• Excellent jumpers; secure lid with no gaps absolutely essential.
• Collected from deeper reef zones; may prefer subdued lighting initially.
• May be shy initially; requires peaceful tankmates and stable conditions.
• Shows best coloration under quality reef lighting in established systems.
• Less commonly available; higher price point than many fairy wrasses.

Why Choose a Quarantined Hooded Flame Fairy Wrasse (Male)?

Our quarantined Hooded Flame Wrasses undergo extended observation and conditioning to ensure they’re accepting prepared foods and displaying optimal health. Given this species’ collection from deeper waters and value, our quarantine process significantly increases the likelihood of long-term success.