Shark Fin Naoko's Fairy Wrasse - Male

Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse (Cirrhilabrus naokoae), also known as the Shark Fin Fairy Wrasse, is a striking saltwater fish prized for its dramatic coloration and distinctive elevated dorsal fin. Adult males display a vivid combination of red, yellow, white, blue, and black, with the tall, dark dorsal fin creating the characteristic “shark fin” appearance that gives this marine aquarium fish one of its common trade names.

Native to reef habitats around Sumatra, Indonesia in the eastern Indian Ocean, this active fairy wrasse spends much of its time swimming above and around reef structure in search of small planktonic foods. Its manageable adult size, energetic swimming behavior, and brilliant coloration make it an excellent showpiece for a well-established reef aquarium or fish-only aquarium.

While generally compatible with a wide variety of community fish, Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse has a somewhat assertive temperament compared with some other fairy wrasses. Care should be taken when mixing it with closely related Cirrhilabrus and Paracheilinus species, particularly in smaller aquariums.

Quick Care Guide

Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet: Carnivore / Planktivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Region: Eastern Indian Ocean – Sumatra, Indonesia
Scientific Name: Cirrhilabrus naokoae

Tank Requirements

Provide a mature, well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock or reef structure for shelter while maintaining generous open areas for swimming. Caves, overhangs, and shaded retreats allow the wrasse to feel secure, especially during its initial acclimation period and at night.

Like other fairy wrasses, this species is an accomplished jumper. A tight-fitting mesh screen or secure aquarium lid is essential, including coverage around plumbing, equipment, and other potential escape openings.

A sand bed is not required for sleeping because fairy wrasses typically shelter within rockwork rather than burying themselves. Moderate to strong, varied water movement is suitable as long as calmer areas are available around the rock structure.

Diet and Feeding

Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse is primarily a carnivorous planktivore that naturally feeds on small zooplankton and other tiny organisms suspended in the water column.

In the aquarium, offer a varied diet consisting of enriched mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped marine seafood, copepods, quality frozen marine blends, and appropriately sized marine pellets or flakes. A mixture of frozen and prepared foods helps maintain strong coloration and body condition.

Because fairy wrasses are active fish with relatively high energy demands, feeding small portions two or more times per day is beneficial when the aquarium's nutrient-management system allows.

Temperament and Tankmates

This species is active and confident but can be more assertive than many similarly sized fairy wrasses. It generally does well with peaceful to moderately aggressive marine fish that will not harass or outcompete it.

Use additional care when combining it with other fairy wrasses, flasher wrasses, or fish with similar coloration and body shape. Territorial displays and chasing can occur, particularly between males or in aquariums with limited swimming space.

A single specimen is appropriate for most aquariums. Experienced aquarists maintaining larger systems may successfully combine it with compatible wrasse species when adequate space, hiding areas, and thoughtful introductions are provided.

Reef Compatibility

Naoko’s Fairy Wrasse is considered reef safe and is an excellent choice for coral-dominated aquariums. It does not normally eat or damage corals, clams, or other sessile reef organisms.

As with any individual marine fish, newly introduced specimens should be observed around very small ornamental crustaceans, but this species is generally considered suitable for established reef communities.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 75–80°F
Specific Gravity: 1.024–1.026
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

Stable, well-maintained water quality is more important than attempting to maintain one exact value within these ranges. Avoid sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or other major parameters, particularly during acclimation.

Common Considerations

• Exceptional jumper: A secure mesh screen or tightly fitted lid is essential.

• Wrasse compatibility: May become territorial toward other fairy and flasher wrasses, especially similar-looking males.

• Active swimmer: Provide ample open swimming space in addition to secure rockwork and hiding areas.

• Frequent feeding: Benefits from multiple small meals of high-quality meaty marine foods.

• Acclimation: Newly introduced specimens may initially hide or behave cautiously before becoming confident and spending more time in open water.