The Earle's fairy wrasse (Cirrhilabrus earlei) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Earle's fairy wrasse is a fairy wrasse (Labridae) from reef water of the western Pacific around Palau. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a slender, pink with yellow and purple tints body; courting males light up spectacularly and spread their fins. As a day-active fish it hovers in small groups above coral and rubble slopes and snaps at small zooplankton in the current. Like many wrasses a female can change sex. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Earle's fairy wrasse?
The Earle's fairy wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Earle's fairy wrasse live?
The Earle's fairy wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Earle's fairy wrasse get?
The Earle's fairy wrasse grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Earle's fairy wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Earle's fairy wrasse is harmless to humans.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirrhilabrus
More from the family Labridae
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