Australian Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus lineatus)
A vibrant and elegant addition to the reef aquarium, the Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse is a beautifully coloured species known for its flowing movement, bold patterning, and striking purple-lined markings. With its active swimming behaviour and peaceful nature, this wrasse makes a stunning display fish for mature reef systems.
 
Signature Standard
As part of our Atlantis Signature Fish Collection, this specimen will have undergone a thorough quarantine and conditioning process prior to release. Each fish is carefully monitored, feeding well, and assessed for overall health, ensuring you receive a premium, stable addition to your aquarium.
 
Key Information
Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus lineatus
Common Name: Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse / Lineatus Fairy Wrasse
Origin: Australia and surrounding reef regions
Adult Size: Up to 12–15cm
Temperament: Peaceful to moderately assertive
Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
Minimum Tank Size: 250L+
 
Behaviour & Characteristics
The Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse is an active, open-water swimmer that brings constant movement and colour to the aquarium. Unlike sand-burying wrasses, fairy wrasses sleep within the rockwork or mucus cocoon at night, so a secure reef structure and plenty of hiding places are important.
 
Generally peaceful, this species does best in a calm reef aquarium with suitable swimming space and carefully chosen tank mates. Males can display enhanced colouration and impressive flashing behaviour, especially when settled and confident.
 
Feeding
A natural plankton feeder, the Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse feeds from the water column throughout the day. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet including:
 
Frozen mysis shrimp
Enriched brine shrimp
Copepods and small meaty foods
High-quality marine pellets
Fine chopped seafood
 
Regular feeding will help maintain strong colour, body condition, and activity levels. Smaller, more frequent feeds are ideal for long-term success.
 
Compatibility
Best housed with peaceful to semi-peaceful tank mates
Reef safe with corals
Does not require a sand bed
Avoid highly aggressive wrasses or territorial fish
Use caution when mixing with similar fairy wrasse species
A tight-fitting lid is essential, as fairy wrasses are known jumpers
 
Care Level (Intermediate)
The Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse is generally hardy once established, but still requires:
 
A mature, stable reef system
Excellent water quality
Plenty of swimming space
Secure rockwork for retreating
A tight-fitting aquarium cover
Regular varied feeding
 
Why We Love It
The Purple Lined Fairy Wrasse combines elegance, colour, and personality in one reef-safe package. Its active swimming, intricate markings, and graceful movement make it a true showcase wrasse for reef aquariums.
 
Available as part of our Atlantis Signature Fish Collection. 
Premium livestock, Responsibly sourced, Expertly conditioned.