Scott’s Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus scottorum)
A bold and highly desirable reef wrasse, the Scott’s Fairy Wrasse is known for its intense colouration, active swimming behaviour and unmistakable presence within the aquarium. Also traded as the Scottorum Wrasse, this species can display a striking blend of green, blue, purple and red tones, with mature males often becoming especially vibrant as they settle and display.
 
Elegant, confident and full of character, the Scott’s Fairy Wrasse makes a superb feature fish for a mature reef aquarium.
 
Signature Standard
As part of our Atlantis Signature Fish Collection, this specimen has 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 scottorum
Common Name: Scott’s Fairy Wrasse / Scottorum Wrasse
Origin: Western Pacific, including Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and surrounding Pacific reef regions
Adult Size: Up to approximately 13cm
Temperament: Peaceful to moderately assertive
Reef Compatibility: Reef safe
Minimum Tank Size: 250L+
 
Behaviour & Characteristics
Active, colourful and constantly on display, the Scott’s Fairy Wrasse is an open-water swimmer that brings movement and energy to the reef aquarium. Unlike sand-burying wrasses, fairy wrasses retreat into the rockwork at night, so a secure aquascape with suitable hiding places is important.
 
Males can show impressive colour and display behaviour, especially when settled and confident. While generally peaceful, mature males may become more assertive, particularly towards similar-shaped or closely related wrasses. Care should be taken when mixing with other fairy wrasses.
 
Feeding
A natural plankton feeder, the Scott’s 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 species
Use caution when mixing with similar fairy wrasses
A tight-fitting lid is essential, as fairy wrasses are known jumpers
 
Care Level
Intermediate
The Scott’s Fairy Wrasse is generally hardy once established, but still requires:
A mature, stable reef system
Excellent water quality
Plenty of open swimming space
Secure rockwork for retreating
A tight-fitting aquarium cover
Regular varied feeding
Careful introduction with other wrasses
 
Why We Love It
The Scott’s Fairy Wrasse is a true showcase reef fish, combining bold colour, movement and personality. Its confident swimming style and striking colour palette make it a standout addition to a carefully managed reef aquarium.
 
Available as part of our Atlantis Signature Fish Collection — premium livestock, responsibly sourced, expertly conditioned.