A great Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse!
Origin: Melanesia

Size info:
Size XL: approx. 4" >

There once was a fish named Laboutei
With a colorful, stunning display
His fins were electric
And quite photogenic
He's known to brighten up any gray day

Laboutei, a Fairy Male Wrasse
Is quite the sight to amaze
With a brilliant blue hue
And a splash of gold too
He's a favorite among underwater paparazzi's gaze

Keeping Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse in an Aquarium

The Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse, also known as the Blue Star Leopard Wrasse, is a stunningly beautiful fish that is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts. Here are some things to keep in mind if you're considering adding one to your tank:

Tank Size and Setup

These fish are fairly active and need plenty of swimming room, so a tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended. The aquarium should be well-filtered and have plenty of hiding places, as these fish can be somewhat shy and like to retreat to a safe spot from time to time. They also appreciate a sandy substrate, as they like to burrow and sift through the sand for food.

Diet

Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse are carnivorous and need a varied diet that includes plenty of protein. They will eat a variety of foods, including frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other small crustaceans. They may also eat small fish or invertebrates if they are hungry enough, so it's best to keep them well-fed to avoid any potential problems.

Behavior and Compatibility

These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive species in a community tank. However, they may become territorial with other wrasses or fish that resemble them, so it's best to avoid keeping them with other wrasses or fish that have similar coloration or body shape. They may also nip at small invertebrates like shrimp or crabs, so it's best to avoid keeping them with these types of animals as well.

Some Cool Facts About Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse

• These fish are native to the Western Pacific, where they can be found in the waters around Indonesia and the Philippines.
• They are known for their stunning blue and purple coloration, which is most vibrant in males.
• Laboute's Fairy Male Wrasse are also known for their unique swimming style, which involves a series of quick bursts and stops rather than a steady, continuous movement.
• These fish are hermaphroditic, meaning they can change from female to male as they mature. Males are typically more colorful than females.