Common name: Filamentous wrasse

General information

The Filamented Flasher Wrasse, Paracheilinus filamentosus, is a vibrant and active fish known for its remarkable finnage and dynamic mating displays. Males are particularly colorful, with a variety of hues that can include blues, reds, and oranges, along with elongated filamentous dorsal and caudal fins. This species is part of the flasher wrasse group, which are appreciated for their peaceful nature and reef-safe behavior.

Care

Filamented Flasher Wrasses are relatively hardy and suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and a sandy substrate for burrowing. These wrasses are known jumpers, so a tightly fitting lid or screen is essential to prevent escape. A varied diet of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, will help maintain their vibrant colors and health.

Reproduction

In the wild, males perform elaborate courtship displays, flashing their fins and intensifying their colors to attract females. In the aquarium, breeding can occur but is less common. If conditions are right, the male will court the female by dancing and displaying his fins. After spawning, the eggs are released into the water column and hatch into planktonic larvae.

Habitat

The Filamented Flasher Wrasse is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural environment with live rock structures and open swimming spaces is beneficial for their well-being.