Flasher Carpenter Wrasse - Paracheilinus Carpenteri

Care Level Easy

Temperament Peaceful

Color Form Blue, Orange

Diet Carnivore

Reef Compatible Yes

Water Conditions sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size 3¼"

Family Labridae

Minimum Tank Size 55 gallons

The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse, also known as the Carpenter's Wrasse, or Redfin Flasher Wrasse, is orange with blue vertical stripes as a juvenile. As the fish matures and becomes an adult, the coloration becomes yellow with a series of broken blue horizontal stripes. The dorsal fin features three elongated rays and is red in color accented with yellows and blues. The colors of the adult males intensify when in courtship, whereas the females coloration and overall appearance are more subdued. The females also do not feature the large dorsal and anal fins.

The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse requires a 55 gallon or larger aquarium with a tight-fitting lid since it is a jumper. A grouping is acceptable and often recommended, since the females will encourage the male to perform colorful displays. The females should be introduced into the tank first. It is often harassed by other fish so the Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse should be the first species introduced into the aquarium. It is best to keep it with peaceful tank mates.

The Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse diet should include vitamin enriched frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty foods along with a high quality marine flake and marine pellet food.