Fin's Fish Guide
The Orange-back fairy wrasse (Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Orange-back fairy wrasse is a fairy wrasse (Labridae) from reef water of the western Pacific, around Sulawesi. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a slender, body with a bright-orange back and purple flanks body; courting males colour up spectacularly. As a plankton feeder it hovers in loose schools above coral and rubble slopes and snaps at small zooplankton. Like many wrasses a female can change sex. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orange-back fairy wrasse?
The Orange-back fairy wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Orange-back fairy wrasse live?
The Orange-back fairy wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Indonesia
How big does the Orange-back fairy wrasse get?
The Orange-back fairy wrasse grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Orange-back fairy wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Orange-back fairy wrasse is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Orange-back fairy wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orange-back fairy wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirrhilabrus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Orange-back fairy wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orange-back fairy wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.