Ruby-Headed Fairy Wrasse

Cirrhilabrus chaliasi

The Ruby-headed Fairy Wrasse is a small, reef-associated fish found in the Indo-West Pacific, specifically in Indonesia. Males or unsexed individuals can grow up to 6.5 cm in length, while females reach about 4.6 cm. This species is easily identified by its distinctive coloration and morphology. The head is bright red with a magenta wash, and the scales behind the pectoral fin are purple with dark inky blue to indigo edges. The dorsal two-thirds of the body exhibit an ochre to yellow-brown hue. These fish inhabit rubble zones with sporadic coral cover, typically at depths ranging from 8 to 20 meters. Divers encountering the Ruby-headed Fairy Wrasse can expect to find them in areas with rubble and some coral cover. They are harmless to humans and add a splash of color to the underwater landscape. Currently, there is no evaluation of their conservation status, meaning they have not been assessed for potential threats or population trends.