Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasse

Also known as Pintail Fairy Wrasse

The Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasse is a breathtaking species displaying vibrant purple, red, and yellow coloration with an elongated tail giving it an elegant appearance. This peaceful and active planktivore is a highly prized centerpiece for reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus isosceles
• Common Names: Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasse, Pintail 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: 90 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide extensive live rock with caves and overhangs for security. These active wrasses need ample open swimming space for displaying their elegant swimming style. Well-established tanks with stable conditions are preferred. Secure lid required as they can jump.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.020-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Excellent water quality essential
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate to strong water flow

Diet & Feeding

Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasses are carnivorous planktivores requiring varied nutrition:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flakes
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, cyclops, chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Live brine shrimp, copepods (beneficial during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally accepts prepared foods readily; feed in water column

Notes & Considerations

• Males display spectacular purple-violet body with red markings, yellow accents, and elongated pintail.
• One of the most elegant and sought-after fairy wrasses due to distinctive tail shape.
• 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.
• Active swimmers that add constant graceful movement to the aquarium.
• Can be kept with other peaceful wrasses and reef fish.
• Males may display territorial behavior toward other male fairy wrasses.
• Shows best coloration in well-established tanks with quality lighting.
• Generally hardy once properly acclimated.
• More expensive than many fairy wrasses due to distinctive appearance and demand.
• Less commonly available than some other fairy wrasse species.

Why Choose a Quarantined Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasse?

Quarantined Splendid Pintail Fairy Wrasses have been carefully observed, treated preventatively, and conditioned to accept a variety of prepared foods. This acclimation period ensures you receive a healthy, robust specimen ready to showcase its stunning colors and elegant swimming style in your reef aquarium.