Orangeback fairy-wrasse

The orangeback fairy-wrasse, Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis, is a species of wrasse endemic to the Pacific waters of Indonesia. It inhabits coral reefs and can be found at depths from 10 to 25 m (33 to 82 ft). This species can reach a total length of 10 cm (3.9 in).[2] It can be found in the aquarium as well as ocean trade.[1]

Orangeback fairy-wrasse
Conservation status
Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Actinopterygii
Order:	Labriformes
Family:	Labridae
Genus:	Cirrhilabrus
Species:	C. aurantidorsalis
Binomial name
Cirrhilabrus aurantidorsalis G. R. Allen & Kuiter, 1999

The Fairy Wrasse fishes, genus Cirrhilabrus, have many species that are found all over the Info-Pacific. The fairy wrasses are known for their bright neon colors.

The Orangeback Fairy Wrasses are like many wrasses in that they live in harems of many females in a group with only one male. The male is the dominant fish with the stronger colors and traits. There have been no small males that have been recorded so it is believed that all Orangeback Fairy Wrasses’ begin as females and then some females transform into males.[3] The Cirrhilabrus species eats mainly Zooplankton, they have pair of teeth in the front and a set of teeth wrapped around the side which is used to break down their food.[4] Orangeback Fairy wrasses are found in shallow waters mainly ranging from 10–75 feet but also can be found deeper. When the Fairy wrasses are found in deeper depths however, their fluorescence allows them to see wavelengths that wouldn't otherwise be available. All Fairy Wrasses have great ability to see red fluorescence which is unique as most fish have poor sensitivity within this area.[5] There is much still not known about Orangeback Fairy Wrasses as most of the species have not been found in the open ocean. However, we do know that the males and females vary significantly from how they act to their sensitivities to different colors and wavelengths.