Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse

The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus carpenteri) is a dazzling and active species known for its stunning coloration and energetic swimming behavior. This small wrasse is highly sought after by aquarists for its vivid colors, especially the males' iridescent flares, which are a visual treat in any reef tank.

(REEF SAFE / BEGINNER)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse, Flasher Wrasse
• Scientific Name: Paracheilinus carpenteri
• Family: Labridae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Indo-Pacific, found in coral reefs and rocky areas in places such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Fiji. They inhabit reef slopes and sandy areas at depths of 30 to 100 feet.
• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Lifespan: Typically 3–5 years with proper care
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; the Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse is hardy and well-suited to reef tanks, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse is known for its vibrant color palette. Males exhibit iridescent orange, yellow, and blue with a bright red tail, which flares during display. Females have a more muted coloration, often a blend of yellow and pale pink.
• Body Shape & Structure: A small, elongated body with a streamlined form, designed for fast swimming. Males have elongated dorsal fins that they use in displays to attract females, contributing to their flashy appearance.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) or larger.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide a well-established tank with plenty of live rock, crevices, and caves. This wrasse enjoys hiding and swimming in and out of rock formations, so plenty of hiding spots are essential.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse feeds on small crustaceans, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods. It will also accept high-quality pellets and flake foods.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 times daily, offering a variety of high-protein foods to keep it healthy and active.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and social, the Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse is an active swimmer, often seen darting between rocks and coral. Males can be territorial, particularly during breeding displays, but they do not generally exhibit aggression toward other species.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly or in pairs. Males are territorial, especially in smaller tanks, but they can be kept with multiple females in larger aquariums. A peaceful and active species, they thrive in groups or harems.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful reef fish. Avoid keeping it with larger, more aggressive species that could stress it. It generally coexists well with other wrasse species, as long as the tank is large enough.
• Activity Level: Very active and inquisitive, often seen swimming in the water column and foraging for food. Males perform frequent displays, flaring their fins to attract females.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse is relatively easy to care for, making it a good choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. It is generally hardy and adapts well to aquarium life.
• Special Requirements: Provide a tank with plenty of hiding spots, as this species appreciates shelter. While it is generally peaceful, males may display territorial behavior, especially if other wrasses are kept in the tank.
• Breeding Info: Little is known about breeding the Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse in captivity, though it is known that males perform intricate displays to attract females. Breeding is rare in home aquariums.
• Additional Notes: The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse is a stunning fish that brings motion and color to a reef tank. It is not only visually appealing but also an active and entertaining species to watch. Its peaceful nature makes it compatible with most reef tank setups, though care should be taken with tank mates to avoid any stress or aggression.