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Exquisite wrasse

Cirrhilabrus exquisitus

Exquisite wrasse© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Exquisite wrasse (Cirrhilabrus exquisitus) is a vibrant, small reef fish prized by aquarium hobbyists for its striking colors. It inhabits coral reefs in the Indo‑Pacific and reaches about 12 cm in length. Though not a typical sport fish, it can be caught by anglers using ultra‑light gear for observation or photo‑catch‑and‑release.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Labridae

Max Size

12 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

6-40m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

All year, with peak activity during the warm summer months in tropical regions

Best Time

Early morning to midday when they are most active feeding

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Exquisite wrasse

  • Use ultralight gear (2‑4 lb test line on a 1.2‑1.5 m fast‑action spinning rod).
  • Target areas with branching corals and overhangs where wrasses congregate.
  • Employ tiny live bait such as shrimp or mysid shrimp, or micro soft‑plastic grubs.
  • Use a gentle, slow retrieve or drift a light jig and set the hook quickly due to the fish’s small mouth.

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Exquisite wrasse

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 1.2‑1.5 m, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft‑plastic grubs or tiny shrimp imitations
TechniqueLight jigging or drift fishing over reef structures with gentle hook‑sets

Best bait: Live shrimp, small mysid shrimp, or micro baitfish