Cirrhilabrus scottorum is a laterally compressed fairy wrasse from South Pacific reefs ranging from the Great Barrier Reef east to the Pitcairn Group, reaching roughly 5 inches in length. The body grades from green and blue-green across the upper half into a reddish lower portion, overlaid with fine black speckling and finished with a greenish-yellow snout. Regional variation is pronounced: Fijian fish tend toward green with a dark dorsal margin, Cook Islands specimens lean bluer with yellow fins and a red flank patch, and Australian fish typically carry more red or orange in the fins. Courting males intensify their coloration and erect the fins fully.

Adults should be housed in a mature marine system of at least 55 gallons, with more volume strongly favored if a group or additional wrasses are planned. The layout should balance substantial open water for swimming with abundant live rock arranged into caves and crevices, since this species cruises above the reef rather than burying itself in sand. Maintain consistently high water quality, good aeration and moderate or stronger current. A tightly fitted, escape-proof cover is not optional; this wrasse jumps readily and gaps around overflows or equipment are a common loss point. Freshly introduced fish often hide for a period and should be left undisturbed while they settle.