Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse

The Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus flavianalis) is a vibrant and energetic reef fish known for its dazzling courtship displays and striking coloration. This species is highly sought after by aquarists due to its peaceful nature and reef-safe behavior.

(REEF SAFE / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse, Golden Fin Flasher Wrasse
• Scientific Name: Paracheilinus flavianalis
• Family: Labridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in coral reefs and outer reef slopes.
• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
• Lifespan: Typically 5–7 years with proper care
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires stable water conditions and a well-established tank.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Males display a mix of red, orange, and yellow with extended filamentous fins, especially during flashing displays. Females and juveniles have more subdued coloration.
• Body Shape & Structure: Slender, elongated body designed for swift swimming and quick movements.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons (150 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 ample rock structures for hiding spots and open swimming areas. A tight-fitting lid is necessary to prevent jumping.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Frozen or live mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality marine pellets.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful and social but may establish a hierarchy within its group.
• Social Behavior: Best kept in harems (one male with multiple females) to encourage vibrant flashing displays.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful reef fish; should not be housed with overly aggressive species.
• Activity Level: Constantly active, swimming in open water and displaying vivid colors during courtship.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Requires a stable tank environment and a varied diet to maintain health and coloration.
• Special Requirements: Needs a secure lid, as it is prone to jumping.
• Breeding Info: Males perform elaborate displays to attract females, but breeding in captivity is uncommon.
• Additional Notes: The Yellowfin Flasher Wrasse is reef-safe and does not harm corals or invertebrates. Keeping a male with females enhances its natural coloration and courtship behavior.